Boats and Bouzoukis

1 - May - Nafplio

Started today  with a nice walk in the sunshine.  Even this little cactus had her best hat on.

One of the most beautiful towns in the area of Argolis (in eastern Peloponnese) as well as one of the most romantic cities all over Greece, Nafplio was the first capital of the newly born Greek state between 1823 and 1834.

We took a walk by the waterfront to see the yachts in the daytime.

My favorite.

Of course there was lunch.

Eight legs and all.

According to mythology, the town was founded by Nafplios, the son of god Poseidon and the daughter of Danaus (Danaida) Anymone. The town’s history traces back to the prehistoric era when soldiers from here participated in the Argonautic expedition and the Trojan War alike. The town declined during the Roman times and flourished again during the Byzantine times. Frankish, Venetian and Turkish conquerors left their mark in the town and strongly influenced its culture, architecture and traditions during the centuries. Ancient walls, medieval castles, monuments and statues, Ottoman fountains and Venetian or neoclassical buildings mesmerize the visitor with their unique architecture and beauty.

Tonight we will dine together at a non-tourist restaurant and listen to some Greek Rembetiko music. The Greeks consider Rembetiko to be like the Blues. When the junta was in power, it was illegal to play this music. There are themes about tragic historical events in Greek history like massacres and forced relocation. Kind of a downer but the music is good. We had a small group singing and playing and even our guide Delfi showed off her bouzouki skills.