Greece -- Nafplio, Epidaurus & Mycenae

Nafplio

When checking out ruins on the eastern side of the Peloponnese, Nafplio, a two and a half hour bus ride south of Athens, makes a good base to explore from. Nafplio boasts a 300 year old fortress, an island fortress, and some nice beaches.

In Nafplio, perched 999 steps (I counted them!) up on a hill, is the old Palamidi Fortress, built in 1711 ad. The fortress is in good shape, and has fantastic views of the town, and the coast.

Below: Palamidi Fortress & View of Bourtzi from Palamidi



Above: 999 Steps to the top & Bourtzi

Just west of the port, lies the little fortress known as Bourtzi. It was originally built by the Venetians. Boats for Bourtzi leave from Akti Miaouli.

I got a bed at the Hotel Economou. Met some people here, and had a picnic supper and some wine with them down by the beach. Fun night. The next morning I discovered that I had my first encounter with bed bugs, as there was a straight line of bites going up my arm. Bad start to the day. Hungover, an even worse start. Went to Mycenae on a flaming hot day, worse again. Advil to the rescue!

Within an hour's bus ride of Nafplio are ruins of Mycenae and Epidaurus.


Epidaurus

A World Heritage Site, Epidaurus has one of the best Greek theatres. It can hold almost 15000 people, and the acoustics are amazing. A dime dropped on stage can be heard from the upper rows. In the summer, the Festival of Epidaurus takes place, and performances are held at the theatre. Seeing a play here is well worth it!

Also at Epidaurus, and less impressive, is the Sanctuary of Asclepius, the god of medicine.


Mycenae

Mycenae, the dominant Greek kingdom for over 400 years (1600-1200BC) is located an hour north of Nafplio. The ruins are entered through the Lion Gate. Once inside you will see Grave Circle A to your right. Magnificent golden treasures were taken from this grave site. These treasures, along with the Golden Death Mask of Agamemnon, are on display in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.

One of the coolest architectual parts of the ruins is the beehive shaped Treasury of Atreus. This domed tomb was the tallest and widest domed structure in the world for over 1000 years.

Below: Treasury of Atreus & Grave Circle A


Apart from the ruins, there is no reason to spend any time extra time at Mycenae.