Following in the footsteps of mythology
The charming and peaceful land of Argolida holds, within the bowels of its earth, one of the most important civilizations ever to see the light of day: the Mycenaean civilization.
Mycenae is the city of the legendary Agamemnon. Homer and other writers of ancient Greek tragedy committed their names to memories that have passed into the collective unconscious of humanity. Agamemnon and Menelaus, Danaë and Perseus, Pelops and Atreus are the apparent forefathers of all of Europe, and the birthplace of all of these historical figures, is golden Mycenae.
The apogee of the Mycenaeans, with their majestic architecture, inscribed monuments, and sophisticated civilization, occurred in the Late Bronze Age, between 1350 and 1200 BC. The first hegemonic factions appeared as early as 1700 BC, that is, in a historical period for which is difficult to determine exact details. But around this same period construction began on the first monumental tombs. After this, expansion developed at a dizzying speed. Palatial complexes, Cyclopean masonry which is awe-inspiring even today, the famous “Tomb of Agamemnon” (also known as the “Treasury of Atreus”), huge arches, fountains and ramparts comprise one of the greatest architectural complexes known to the ancient world.
After the Mycenae visit, you will discover Náfplio’s precious gems starting from the medieval Old Town, the narrow cobblestone alleys, the neoclassical well preserved mansions with the Bougainvillea trees adorning their yards and balconies and the Turkish fountains. Nafplio is a coastal city located in the Peloponnese in Greece that is the capital of the regional unit of Argolis and an important touristic destination. Founded in antiquity, the city became an important seaport in the Middle Ages during the Frankokratia as part of the lordship of Argos and Nauplia, held initially by the de la Roche following the Fourth Crusade before coming under the Republic of Venice and, lastly, the Ottoman Empire. The city was the second capital of the First Hellenic Republic and of the Kingdom of Greece, from 1827 until 1834.
In the very heart of the city stands the Italianate Syntagma Square where you can admire important historic buildings and monuments. Two Turkish mosques (the first used to house the first “Mutual Learning” School and now operates as a cinema/theatre whereas the second was home to the first Greek Parliament), the Archaeological Museum with important artifacts from the Prehistoric and Mycenaean Era and the Municipal Gallery are among the buildings that stand out. Very close to the modern city stand the church of Agios Spyridonas, in front of which Governor Ioannis Kapodistrias was assassinated, and the church of Agios Georgios boasting important murals such as a copy of the famous Leonardo Da Vinci work “The secret Dinner”. Nafplio city exploration plus the visit to the important castle of Palamidi, all highlights of the Corinth canal, museum of Epidaurus, Ancient theater, and archeological site! It can also be combined with swimming at a sandy beach which is very popular in the summertime.
Palamidi fortress is nestled on the crest of a 216-meter high hill and it was built by the Venetians during their second occupation of the area (1686–1715). The fortress commands an impressive view over the Argolic Gulf, the city of Náfplio, and the surrounding country. The fortress was a very large and ambitious project but was finished within a relatively short period from 1711 until 1714. It is a typical baroque fortress based on the plans of Venetian engineer Antonio Giancix (Antun Jančić) and built by French military engineer Pierre de la Salle. In 1715 it was captured by the Ottomans and remained under their control until 1822, when it was captured back by the Greeks.
Our Driver will guide you and will make sure that this will be an unforgettable tour. Since this is a private tour, you will enjoy it at your own pace. Upon your choice, even an amazing lunch with authentic greek tastes can be enjoyed!
The private tour will take you to essential sites in the comfort of our vehicles which are all new and licensed by the Greek National Tourism Organisation fully insured and maintained.
Our Drivers are professional, English-speaking, and will give any additional info needed.
If your group size is more than 4 persons, please select from “EXTRAS” your correct vehicle type.
