Kalamata is a coastal city in the southwest Peloponnese, famous for its olives, beaches and lively atmosphere. But did you know that it also has a rich history and culture, dating back to ancient times? In this blog post, we will show you how to explore the historic centre of Kalamata and its 13th-century castle, which are among the best things to do in Kalamata.
The historic centre of Kalamata
The historic centre of Kalamata is located between the church of Ipapanti and the 23rd of March square, where the Greek Revolution against the Ottoman Empire was declared in 1821. It is a charming area with narrow streets, old mansions, traditional shops and cafes, and several museums and galleries. Here are some of the highlights:
- The Historical and Folklore Museum of Kalamata, which displays artifacts from the 1821 Revolution and the rural and urban life of Messinia.
- The Archaeological Museum of Messinia, which exhibits findings from various archaeological sites in the region, such as Ancient Messene, Pylos and Methoni.
- The Gallery of Contemporary Greek Art and the Municipal Gallery “A. Tassos”, which showcase works by prominent and emerging Greek artists.
- The Railway Park, which is a green oasis with old locomotives, carriages and railway equipment.
- The Ypapanti Church, which is a beautiful Byzantine-style church with a distinctive bell tower.
- The 23rd of March Square, which is a lively spot with a statue of Theodoros Kolokotronis, one of the heroes of the 1821 Revolution.
You can easily walk around the historic centre of Kalamata, or take a taxi if you prefer. You can also rent a bike or join a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of the city.
The 13th-century castle of Kalamata
Another must-see attraction in Kalamata is the castle, which stands on a hill overlooking the city and the sea. The castle was built by Geoffroi of Villehardouin, a Frankish lord who conquered Kalamata in 1204 after the Fourth Crusade. The castle was later occupied by various invaders, such as Byzantines, Ottomans and Venetians, who added their own modifications. The castle was partly destroyed by an earthquake in 1986, but it was restored and opened to the public.
The castle offers stunning views of Kalamata and its surroundings, as well as a glimpse into its medieval past. You can see the remains of the walls, towers, gates and cisterns, as well as a small chapel dedicated to Saint John. You can also visit the amphitheatre inside the castle, where cultural events are often held during summer.
To reach the castle, you can either walk up from the historic centre (about 20 minutes), or take a taxi or bus. The entrance fee is 2 euros, and there is a small museum with information panels and models. The castle is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:30 am to 3 pm.
Conclusion
Kalamata is not only a great destination for sun-seekers and food-lovers, but also for history and culture enthusiasts. By exploring the historic centre and the castle of Kalamata, you will discover a fascinating side of the city that many visitors miss. You will also appreciate the beauty and diversity of the Peloponnese, one of the most authentic and captivating regions of Greece.
Have you ever visited Kalamata and its historic attractions? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!
