The restoration of the historic Church of St. Nicholas in the Old Town of Nafplio has been completed after more than four years of work. The church, whose original construction began in 1713, underwent a €2.7 million project focused mainly on repairing the collapsed roof and addressing moisture damage.
At the inauguration ceremony, Metropolitan Nektarios of Argolis presided, in the presence of Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni, who stated:
“Today is a very important day for Nafplio, Argolis, and the Ministry of Culture, which, true to its principles of preserving and restoring cultural heritage under international conventions, delivers the Church of St. Nicholas to the local community and visitors fully protected, restored, and highlighted. The joy is greater because the monument is being returned to its original use—worship.”
The minister added:
“It is impressive how this church has been transformed. I remember it many years ago, before the serious roof problems arose that caused severe moisture throughout the interior. It never had the splendor it has today. The restoration work ‘revealed’ the celestial decorations and the entire interior design of the church, bringing out its authentic colors and patterns. The wooden iconostasis, icons, and bishop’s throne have been fully restored. The Orthodox Church is a reflection of heaven. For believers, returning such a monument to its sacred purpose is more than material restoration. For those who may not share that belief, it remains vitally important to see and learn from the narrative of the monument, its elaborate iconostasis, icons, and frescoes of various styles and techniques.”
The restoration included structural reinforcement of the church, repair of the wooden roof frame, masonry damage on the side walls, and the bell towers on the western façade, along with new electrical and mechanical installations. The first phase of the church dates back to 1713, founded by Augustinos Sagredo, fleet commander, as the patron of sailors. Its main reconstruction in its present form took place in 1836. The single-nave basilica displays both classical and neo-Byzantine elements, with its wooden iconostasis and marble decorations standing out as unique works of art.
Enhancement of the Arvanitia Path
During her visit to Nafplio, Minister Mendoni also signed a Cultural Development Program Contract with the Regional Governor of the Peloponnese Dimitris Ptochos, Mayor of Nafplio Dimitris Orfanos, and Chairman of the Municipal Port Authority Christos Goumas for the project: “Addressing landslide risk with innovative methods at the ‘Arvanitia Path’ in Nafplio”.
The €4.78 million project, funded through the Peloponnese Regional Operational Program (ESPA 2021–2027), will stabilize the rocky slopes along the scenic path.
The Arvanitia trail, known for its natural beauty and high visitor traffic, surrounds the rocky peninsula of Acronafplia. It is a pedestrian route (3–5m wide, about 1km long) that connects the western end of Nafplio’s town (near the “Five Brothers” bastion) to Arvanitia beach. Acronafplia itself is the rocky peninsula fortress that formed the city’s walled settlement from antiquity until the late 17th century. The castle complex includes the Roman-era fortifications, the Sagredo Gate with the Clock Tower, the Gambello and Eastern Walls, the Toron Castle, and the Grimani bastion.
The project will involve anchors, reinforced metal mesh, rock removal, protective barriers, and monitoring systems to ensure safe access, including for people with disabilities. It aims not only to protect visitors but also to preserve and highlight the cultural and natural heritage of the area, boosting tourism, upgrading infrastructure, and creating jobs.
Minister Mendoni emphasized:
“Three years ago, the Ministry of Culture completed and delivered the restoration of Bourtzi, a landmark of Nafplio. The Arvanitia Path is another equally important landmark — a unique promenade, beloved by locals and visitors alike. It has been present in literature and Greek cinema. Since 2018–2019, rockfall incidents made the path dangerous, worsened by the climate crisis. This project ensures its preservation and safe reopening.”
Regional Governor Dimitris Ptochos added:
“This project protects an emblematic landmark of Nafplio, the Arvanitia Path, from landslides and rockfalls. It is not only a safety intervention but a strategic choice that highlights the culture, natural environment, and history of the area. Thanks to close cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and local authorities, we are delivering a safe and upgraded site.”
In parallel, Minister Mendoni and Governor Ptochos also signed two additional Program Contracts for ongoing archaeological excavations in Ancient Tenea (Chilomodi) and at the Roman Villa in Katounistra, Loutraki.
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