The impressive Palamidi Fortress was built by the Venetians in the 17th century. According to tradition, its construction was inspired by a vision of the Venetian Commander-in-Chief Francesco Morosini after his victory over the Ottomans and the capture of Nafplio in 1686.
The architectural design of the fortress was created by Grimani, and construction was completed in 1714 during the second period of Venetian rule. The fortress stands at an elevation of 216 meters above sea level, dominating the city of Nafplio.
Palamidi was considered an impregnable fortress and consisted of eight bastions connected by a common defensive wall system.
Originally, communication between the fortress and the town of Nafplio was achieved through a covered passageway. Later, the famous 999 steps were constructed, providing direct access to the fortress from the city below.
The bastions were arranged on three different levels. Visitors ascending on foot first encounter the Grimani Bastion, followed by the Robert Bastion. The remaining bastions include Saint Andrew, Epaminondas, Achilles, Themistocles, and the largest of all, Miltiades. According to local tradition, the area known as Arvanitia derives its name from an incident associated with Hassan Pasha, who allegedly lured and threw Arvanite warriors from the Themistocles Bastion.
The rock on which Palamidi stands, overlooking Nafplio, is said to have been named after Palamedes, the legendary grandson of Poseidon.
Following its fortification, Palamidi became a key element in the defensive network of Nafplio, alongside the Fortress of Akronafplia and Bourtzi Castle. Its capture by the Ottomans significantly altered the course of history in the Peloponnese.
Throughout the fortress complex, visitors can often see the coat of arms of Venice, the famous Lion of Saint Mark, a symbol of Venetian power and influence.
The fortress cells were also used as prisons and execution sites. One of these cells famously held Theodoros Kolokotronis, one of the leading figures of the Greek War of Independence.
Today, Palamidi is open to visitors who wish to explore its impressive fortifications and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views it offers over Nafplio, the Argolic Gulf, and the surrounding countryside. Access is possible either by road from the eastern side of the hill or by climbing the famous 999 steps, which were renovated during the reign of King Otto. In earlier times, part of the ascent passed through Venetian galleries carved into the rock, some of which can still be seen to the right of the staircase today.