Kapodistrias's Nafplio: A Historical Route
Nafplio was the first capital of the modern Greek state, and the story of Ioannis Kapodistrias — Greece's first Governor — is literally written across its streets.
Arrival and Governance
Kapodistrias arrived in Nafplio in January 1828, tasked with organising the newly founded Greek state. The Vouleftiko served as the political centre of that era.
Weekly Worship: Saint Spyridon
Every Sunday, Kapodistrias walked to Saint Spyridon — the church dedicated to the patron saint of his native Corfu. It was exactly this habit that led to the fateful morning of September 27, 1831, when he was assassinated at the church entrance. The bullet is still preserved in the wall today.
The Funeral: Saint George
His funeral was held at Saint George, the town's cathedral. His embalmed remains stayed there for about six months before being transported by flagship to Corfu.
The Legacy
Less than two years after the assassination, Greece's first king, Otto, would enter the very same Saint George's upon his arrival in Nafplio in 1833.
The Route
The full "Kapodistrias" route is easily covered on foot in 1 hour: Vouleftiko → Saint Spyridon → Saint George.
See Also
FAQ
Where was Kapodistrias assassinated?
At the entrance of Saint Spyridon in Nafplio, September 27, 1831.
Where was Kapodistrias mourned?
At Saint George, Nafplio's cathedral.
