Kalamata is one of the largest cities and the main center on the Peloponnesian Peninsula. Kalamata, which was recaptured from the Turks in the past, quickly began to develop both culturally and economically. Currently, the city is known primarily for its high-quality olive oil. Tourists love this place for its beautiful sea landscape, wonderful beaches and monuments such as Geoffrey Villehardouin’s castle from the 13th century, or The Church of Agioi Apostolo from the 10th century.
Kalamata olives
Kalamata olives are one of the most valued olive varieties in the world and come from the Kalamata region. They have a unique taste, delicate with a hint of spiciness, nutritional richness and a characteristic aroma. They have dark purple or purple-brown skin and a fleshy, juicy interior.
Kalamata olive oil is a high-quality olive oil from the Kalamata district, known for growing and producing the best olives in the world. It is considered by gourmets to be the queen of Greek olive oils due to its low acidity and uniquely delicate taste.
What’s worth seeing ?
- Kalamata’s Castle
The Castle of Kalamata is a ruined medieval fortress in Kalamata, the capital of Messenia in southern Greece. The present structure dates to the 13th century, being built by the Crusaders who founded the Principality of Achaea. It replaced (while incorporating some parts) an earlier Byzantine castle, that was in turn built on the site of the acropolis of ancient Pharae. The castle was largely razed in 1685, after being captured by the Venetians.
- Chirch Agioi Apostolo
One of the biggest attractions is the church of Agioi Apostoloi. It is a Greek Orthodox church that was built in the early 13th century and is one of the oldest surviving churches in the country. The church is known for its unique architecture, which combines elements of both Byzantine and Western styles. The exterior of the church is decorated with intricate carvings, and the interior is filled with beautiful frescoes. The Church of Agioi Apostoloi is a popular tourist site and one of the most iconic monuments in Kalamata.
- Kalamata Military Museum
The Military Museum of Kalamata is located in the historical center of the city, since 2006 and is housed in a neoclassical building. The exhibits, photographs and historical information that can be found in this one narrate and present in a unique way the latest Greek History since the Revolution of 1821 until today. On the backyard of the building, there is an F-5A aircraft as well as a battle tank.
- Municipal Railway Park of Kalamata
The Railway Park of Kalamata is an unique open-air museum and popular among all Railway friends worldwide.The park is located at the south end of the Aristomenous street and reaches all the way down to the Kritis Street which separates this park from the Port Authorities Park, which – as one would expect – ends up at the port. It is worthwhile strolling along this park, as it offers greens, banks to sit and relax, play yards, a little lake and a fountain, public exercise courts, a cafe and now and then an open exhibition.
Beaches
- Paralia Kalamatas
- Stoupa beach
- Voidokilia Beach
