Kalamata

Kalamata is the capital and the largest city of Messenia, in the Peloponnese peninsula, southern Greece.

Kalamata is very pedestrian-friendly, there are many pedestrian-only around Aristomenous Square.

Kalamata has a bicycle path starting from the town's market, passing through the historical centre and ending at Anastasi church. An extension is planned to connect the existing path with the town's marina.

Wandering the city’s historical centre you will come across attractions such as the Holy Apostles church, built in 1317, Benakei Archeological Museum, the Municipal Library, which houses works of art donated after the destructive earthquake of Kalamata in 1986 and the Historical and Folkloric Museum of Kalamata

The Temple of the Visitation of the Saviour, was built in the 19th century in a Byzantine style, and is a grandiose temple dedicated to the city’s protector.

Kalamata Castle, built in 1208, is located on a pine-covered hill overlooking the sea. At the foot of the castle there is the semi-cavernous temple of Saint John that has probably existed since the post-Byzantine years.

Learn about the ongoing Byzantine tradition of weaving pure silk on “lakkoi” (looms) in the nunnery of Saints Constantine and Helen, located beside the castle.

Just below the historical centre is the commercial centre, Aristomenous is the city’s main street, home to numerous shops and cafes. The Railway Park, at the end of Aristomenous Street, is the only open museum of this kind, featuring train engines and train cars of different time periods.

Below the city centre is the coastal area, in the summer the beach and surrounding area bustles with life both day and night. Kalamata sandy beach is only a few minutes away from the centre of town.

For souvenirs, head to the museum gift shops, for a good range of gifts to take home. The famous Kalamata olives are grown here or try some honeyed figs, 'pastelli' (a sesame covered sweet) or some local honey.

Tasty snacks such as 'souvlaki' (skewed grilled meat or vegetables) and 'gyros' (meat and vegetables served typically in a wrap or pita) as well as fresh fish and seafood dishes can be found along with lots of international options such as Italian, Asian and fast food.

Kalamata Port is a small coastal harbour. Local attractions and the city centre are a short distance away from the dock area.