Panagia: The Church Hidden in the Heart of the Old Town
One of the most charming things about Nafplio is that you never know what you'll discover down an alley. The church of Panagia, dedicated to the Nativity of the Theotokos, is exactly that kind of discovery — "trapped" between two of the old town's busiest cafés ("Rosso" and "old Sokaki"), right behind the Archaeological Museum.
History
The original church dates to the 15th century, during the first Venetian period — smaller then, belonging to the Orthodox community. Around 1700, during the second Venetian period, the church took its current form as a three-aisle basilica. Inside, it houses a beautiful wood-carved Ionian-style iconostasis, made in the 19th century.
Panagia is one of Nafplio's three central parishes, alongside Saint George and Saint Nicholas.
The Good Friday Procession
Every year, on Good Friday, the Epitaphios processions of Saint George and Panagia meet in Syntagma Square, in one of the town's most moving ceremonies. Thousands of faithful accompany the procession by candlelight.
The church also fills with worshippers on Holy Tuesday, for the service of the Hymn of Kassiani.
Practical Information
Location: Behind the Archaeological Museum, between Rosso and old Sokaki cafés
Admission: Free (parish church)
Hours: Usually during service hours
Practical tip: If you're in Nafplio during Holy Week, don't miss the Epitaphios procession on Good Friday in Syntagma Square.
See Also
Where is the church of Panagia in Nafplio?
Behind the Archaeological Museum, between the Rosso and old Sokaki cafés.
When did the church take its current form?
Around 1700, during the second Venetian period.
What happens at Panagia on Good Friday?
Its Epitaphios procession meets Saint George's in Syntagma Square.
