Kalamata is a seaside city on the Peloponnese peninsula in southern Greece. It is situated on the Nedon river, in the Messenian Gulf. Kalamata refers to the 'beautiful eyes' of the Virgin Mary. The city's history dates back several millennia. Homer first mentioned the acropolis of Firai which is the site of the ruins of the castle above the old part of the city.
Old Town
Palia Poli is situated at the foot of the castle, north of the modern city. The settlement began at what was the acropolis and grew down towards the sea. Most of the buildings in the Old Town escaped damage from the earthquakes of 1886 and 1986. Narrow alleyways divide the houses, churches and museums. The cathedral, independence Square of March 23, the Folklore and Archaeological museums and several boutique shops provide daytime activities. The restaurants and tavernas light up the nights. It is a drawcard for the local youth.
Archaeological Museum of Messenia
The Archaeological Museum of Messenia is situated in the historic center of Kalamata. It was built on the site of the old municipal market which had to be demolished after being damaged by the earthquake of 1986. There are four thematic areas corresponding to the ancient provinces of Trifylia, Messene, Kalamata and Pylia. Within each zone, the artifacts and displays chronicle events from the Neolithic era, through the Bronze Ages, the Geometric Periods, to the early Byzantine era. The museum timeline stretches from 4000 BC to 1200 BC. The museum shop is in the foyer and sells books and copies of the artifacts.
Benaki & Agiou Ioannou St., 24100 Kalamata, Phone: +30-27-21-02-62-09
Kalamata Dance Festival
Kalamata Dance Festival is held over 10 days in July. It was instituted by the Kalamata International Dance Center in 1995. Traditionally, the events were held at the ruins of the castle but it now takes place throughout the city with the festival's base in Zuboulio Mansion. The Center's objectives are to promote international and national contemporary dance, through research, education, creativity and activities. Many Greek nationals who have become influential in dance circles had their debut during the festival. There are workshops on acting and dance held during the festival. Parallel events include photo exhibitions, film shows and live music events.
6, Pan. Kessari street, 24100 Kalamata, Phone: +30-27-21-08-30-86 & 908-86
Agora - Central Food Market
Agora - Central Food Market on Spartis Road opens early on Wednesdays and Saturdays. and is abuzz with all manner of fresh produce. The renowned Kalamata olives, cheese, honey, pulses and seasonal fruits and vegetables are on sale, directly from the producers. Carcasses of animals hang in the butchers' stalls. Smoked cuts, sausages and other processed meats are also available. Fish can be purchased whole or cleaned and filleted. Cafés and bakeries provide sustenance for the many browsers. It is advisable to get to the market early. Locals shop there and the prices are reasonable. The market has been in existence for more than 30 years and attracts 450 producers.
Kastro
The castle of Isabeau is built on a rocky hill north west of the modern city. The ancient acropolis that once stood on the site was the Temple of Faria. It was built around 1500 BC, before the Trojan War. The settlement did not grow much beyond the rocky outcrop until the 13th century. There were regular invaders, including Slav peasants, Turks, Venetians and the Knights of Navarra. The Kastro ruins that are visible today are from the time of the Frankish invasion. They provide a natural theater for the various musical and dramatic performances that are held there.
Folklore and History Museum
Folklore and History Museum is housed in the 19th century Kirakou Mansion, a triangular double story building. The Society for the Dissemination of Letters was tasked with curating artifacts and relics from the War of Independence of 1821. These are displayed in a permanent exhibition. Urban, rural and pastoral life of different eras are depicted. Printing and bookbinding displays highlight Kalamata's history as the first city in the country to have a printing press. Weaving and pottery were also significant industries at one time.
Messenia
About 30 kilometers from Kalamata, at the foothill of the Ithomi mountain, is one of Greece's largest and most significant archaeological sites. The walls around the old settlement of Messene were 9 km long. A temple, houses, public buildings, a theater and a stadium are all part of the ruins. The buildings all had the same orientation and the market square is evident. Messenia was built by Epaminondas, a Theban statesman of the 4th century BC, who freed the locals from the Spartans. It was named after a mythical Doric queen who was promoted to the status of goddess. The artifacts are housed in a two story museum.
Kardamo Edesmopoleio
Kardamo Edesmopoleio serves traditional Greek cuisine in a modern way, making the most of the range of ingredients available in this Mediterranean sea port. Seating is available indoors and outside, which the climate permits most of the year. To accompany the comfort cuisine, there is a selection of beers, wines and ouzo.
Sidirodromikou Stathmou 21, Kalamata 241 00, Phone: +30-27-21-09-80-91
Platea
Platea is situated on the main square, in a renovated neoclassical building. On the ground floor is an all-day café and bar.
Vasileos Georgiou Square, 241 00 Kalamáta, Phone: +30-69-70-28-55-55
Yiamas Gastro Bar
Yiamas Gastro Bar is part of the Elite City Resort Hotel.Yiamas Gastro Bar It is situated on the beach in Kalamata, with seating indoors and on the patio. The restaurant combines traditional Mediterranean, Greek and Messinian cuisine with modern techniques and creative presentation. They endeavor to showcase local produce in the restaurant and bar. There is an extensive menu, with half-portion options and children's meals. There is a range of local liqueurs to choose from. On Friday and Saturday evenings there is live musical entertainment. --->
Navarinou 237, Elite City Resort, Kalamata, Phone: +30-27-21-02-24-34
