Kavala is a city in northern Greece, the principal seaport of eastern Macedonia and the capital of Kavala regional unit. It is situated on the Bay of Kavala, across from the island of Thasos and on the Egnatia motorway, a one-and-a-half-hour drive to Thessaloniki and a forty-minute drive to Drama and Xanthi. Kavala is an important economic centre of Northern Greece, a center of commerce, tourism, fishing and oil-related activities and formerly a thriving trade in tobacco.
Kavala has a rich history and culture, dating back to ancient times. It was founded as Neapolis by settlers from Thasos in the 7th century BC and became an important port and ally of Athens. It was later conquered by Philip II of Macedon and his son Alexander the Great, who renamed it after his horse Bucephalus. In the Roman period, it was known as Christopolis and was visited by Apostle Paul on his way to Philippi. In the Byzantine era, it was a fortified city and a bishopric. In the Ottoman period, it was refounded by Mehmed II and became a prosperous trade center under the name Kavala. It was also the birthplace of Muhammad Ali Pasha, the founder of modern Egypt. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Kavala was a major tobacco producer and exporter, attracting many merchants and immigrants from different ethnic and religious backgrounds. It was liberated by the Greek army in 1912 during the Balkan Wars.
Kavala is a beautiful city with a unique character and charm. It combines the old and the new, the traditional and the modern, the natural and the urban. It offers stunning views of the bay and the island of Thassos from its hills and balconies, as well as many attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some tips on how to admire the views of Kavala and Thassos from different perspectives:
The Castle of Kavala
The Castle of Kavala is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city. It is located on the top of the peninsula that forms the old town of Panagia. It was built in the Byzantine period and was expanded and renovated by the Ottomans in the 15th century. It consists of an inner citadel, an outer wall with eight towers, a moat and a gate. The castle offers panoramic views of the city, the bay, the port, the aqueduct and Thassos. It also hosts cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
The Aqueduct
The Aqueduct is another impressive monument of Kavala. It is also known as Kamares (arches) because of its distinctive shape. It was built in the 16th century by Suleiman the Magnificent to supply water to the city from Mount Pangaeus. It spans over 280 meters and has 60 arches of different sizes and heights. It crosses the main road of Kavala and connects the old town with the new town. The aqueduct is illuminated at night and creates a spectacular sight.
Imaret
Imaret is a former Islamic complex that was built by Muhammad Ali Pasha in 1817 as a gift to his hometown. It consists of a mosque, a school, a library, a hospital, a bakery, a kitchen, a fountain and several tombs. It is located in the old town of Panagia, near Muhammad Ali’s house and institute. Imaret is now a luxury hotel that preserves its original architecture and decoration. It has a beautiful garden with palm trees and flowers, where guests can enjoy their breakfast or tea with a view of Thassos.
Panagia
Panagia is the name of the old town of Kavala, which is situated on the slopes of the peninsula. It is a picturesque and charming area, with narrow streets, stone houses, colorful balconies, churches and taverns. Panagia has many viewpoints that offer amazing views of the bay and Thassos, such as the lighthouse, the clock tower, the acropolis and the old port. Panagia is also the place where visitors can find Muhammad Ali’s house and institute, which are museums that display his life and achievements.
Other tips
- Take a boat trip from the port of Kavala to Thassos, the emerald island of the Aegean Sea. Thassos has many beautiful beaches, villages, forests and archaeological sites to explore. It also has a stunning view of Kavala from its coast.
- Visit the nearby archaeological site of Philippi, where Apostle Paul preached his first sermon in Europe and where a famous battle between Octavian and Antony took place. Philippi has a well-preserved theater, a forum, a basilica, a prison and a museum.
- Enjoy the local cuisine and nightlife of Kavala. Kavala has many restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs that serve delicious food and drinks, with a view of the sea or the city lights. Try the fresh seafood, the grilled meat, the salads, the cheese pies and the sweets. Don’t miss the local wine, ouzo and tsipouro.
Kavala is a city that will captivate you with its beauty, history and culture. It is a city that will make you want to come back again and again. It is a city that will give you unforgettable views of the bay and Thassos from its hills and balconies.
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