Travel to Kalamata
History
The history of Kalamata begins with Homer, who mentions Pharai, an ancient town built more or less where Kalamata Castle stands today. It was believed that during ancient times the area currently occupied by the city was covered by the sea, but the proto-Greek and archaic period remains (Poseidon temple), which were discovered in the Akovitika region, prove the opposite.
Top Destinations
Old Town
Like many other Greek cities, Kalamata boasts an amazing historic quarter, where you’ll love wandering along narrow alleys and neoclassical mansions and cute abandoned corners. Located in the northern part of the city, just below the castle, the old town of Kalamata is home to several must-see churches, including the Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles and the Ypapantis Cathedral, a few museums, and a plethora of shops selling local products and original souvenirs.
Church of Ypapantis
The Ypapantis Cathedral, built in 1839, is a stunning Byzantine-style church that houses the Virgin Mary’s holy icon of the same name, dating back to 672 AD. It was found in the stables of the Ottoman governor after he dreamed of a woman telling him to dig in a particular place. After the discovery, he even converted to Christianity because of the many miracles he was supposed to have performed. The church, which sits on a square with the same name, was severely damaged by the earthquakes of 1886 and 1986, both times restored.
Archaeological Museum of Messenia
The Archeological Museum of Messenia is located in the historical heart of Kalamata, where the old market once stood, and houses an extensive collection of archeological finds from prehistoric times to the Byzantine era. It is divided into four geographical areas, including Kalamata, Messene, Pylia and Trifylia, representing the four provinces of Messenia. Exhibits include the splendid Koroni mosaic depicting different scenes of the god Bacchus’ worship.
Kastro
The Kalamata Castle dominates the city on a lush pine-covered hill. The structure was built in 1208 by Geoffroi de Villehardouin, a Frank knight who conquered Achaea. It boasts an impressive gate, and although it dates back to the 13th century, it miraculously survived the earthquake in 1986, which destroyed a large part of the city. The Castle is a little haven of peace and serenity, the best place to enjoy the sunset from a beautiful point of view.
Messenia
As the Messenia region’s capital, Kalamata is an ideal base for exploring the area. Messenia certainly deserves a visit with spectacular beaches, four-and five-star resorts, historical treasures such as old castles and ancient cities (the old city of Messene is nearby) and archeological sites. Whether you’re there for three days, a week or even ten days, you’ll quickly realize that Kalamata has so much more than just a small provincial city.
Top beaches
Kalamata beach
Kalamata beach, awarded with a blue flag, extends over 2.5 km and is easily accessible from the city centre. If you want to adopt the local habits, you can also get there on foot or by bike. The beach, which has a fine rocky shore and warm, calm waters, beach bars, umbrellas and sun lounges, is an ideal choice for a quick rest during the day. Kalamata Beach has a wide variety of beach bars, cafes and tavernas.
Voidokilia
You will find Voidokilia, the spectacular, famous and mostly photographed beach in Messinia, at a distance of 10 km from Pylos, next to the Gialova lagoon in the western part of Messinia. The main feature of this natural bay with its perfectly round crescent, fine, white powder-like sand and crystal clear turquoise waters is its natural beauty that attracts all visitors to the region.
Almyros
It’s one of Kalamata’s most popular and busy beaches. The beach is 6 km east of the city, just before the road to Mani. It has white pebbles, sun loungers and umbrellas and many cafes and beach bars, of course. It’s perfect for water sports like water skiing and windsurfing.
Velika
The large and sandy coast is located two and a half kilometers from the village of Velika, after crossing the reeds growing in the area. The fine golden sand and trees make it a meeting place for many locals and tourists who want to relax in the Messinian Gulf waters. There is a large cafeteria on the edge of the beach, which stands near the sea.
Petalidi beach
Petalidi beach is just before the seaside town harbour. The coast is 300 meters long and is covered by large rocks, while the seabed is sandy. On Petalidi beach, 15 km from Messini, you’ll find shade under the surrounding trees and a traditional coffee shop on the sea front, where you can enjoy the beautiful view.
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