Akronafplia Castle

The rocky peninsula of Akronafplia was walled from antiquity until the end of the 15th century. Its walls testify to its rich history, and their present appearance was shaped mainly during Frankish and Venetian rule (12th-16th centuries). A prehistoric settlement has been discovered in Akronafplia, and in the western part of the acropolis there are parts of ancient polygonal walls dating from the late 4th century b.c.. There are also remains of walls from the Hellenic and Byzantine periods. During the Frankish occupation, the city was divided into two enclosures - a Frankish castle and a Roman castle. The Roman castle has an imposing round tower that protects the castle gate, known as the "Gate of Peace". During Venetian rule, the castle of Toro was added to the east of the Frankish castle. In 1829, Ioannis Kapodistrias built large barracks and a military hospital in Akronauplia. In 1926 the prisons from Palamidi Fortress were moved here, and in 1970-71 their demolition began for the construction of the Xenia Palace Hotel. Today, you can reach Akronafplia Castle from different places in the city.