Kalamata – capital of Messinia

The city of Kalamata is the capital of the prefecture of Messinia, located in the Greek region of Peloponnese. This city offers a wide variety of attractions and interesting spots to meet, and is one of the most visited destinations in this region. Kalamata offers activities and spots which would suit a wide range of preferences and ages, from those who enjoy history and architecture, to those who wish to meet local musical and dance expression forms, among many others. This is a very varied destination and a spot which all those who meet Messinia should not miss.

One of the most interesting attractions in Kalamata, if not the main, is its castle. The Castle of Kalamata was built during the 13th century by Geofrey de Villehardouin, a very important architect in the époque. This castle is not only interesting due to its architectural structure, but also due to the amazing view tourists can have over the surroundings and the coastlines while visiting it.

Surrounding the castle, there are many other antique constructions which belong to what is known as the old city. Among these other antique constructions there are, per example, the convent of the Kalograies and the Church of Virgin Ypapanti, both of them interesting buildings which visitors should not miss.

Visitors who enjoy meeting religious buildings would be able to meet several of them while being in Kalamata. This town has a variety of churches and other religion related constructions dating from different antique époques. The oldest of these religious constructions tourists could meet in Kalamata is the Church of Agil Apostoli, which dates from the 13th century and has a very rich historical past.

Kalamata is also famous by the variety of cultural events it offers and the way it always supports culture in all its expression forms. This can be seen through the city’s Archeological Museum, where visitors can meet fine arts exhibitions, folkloric elements, and ancient books, among many other art expression forms. Besides this, there often are music and dance related events, and the city offers several plays and concerts on a constant basis as well.

Map of Kalamata in Greece