Top Things to Do in the Kalamata | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

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Places To Visit In Kalamata

Archaeological Museum of Messinia

The Archaeological Museum of Messinia is built on the city’s old market hall, and houses antiquities from prehistoric Messinia to Byzantine and Latin eras. Its permanent exhibition is segregated into four geographical areas including the Kalamata, Pylos, Trifylia, and Messini. It majorly houses a collection of the surrounding areas of Mesisnia from the 5th century BC until 1453 depicting their cultural history. The collection includes statues, jewelry, pottery, etc., along with a collection of Byzantine coins. The museum is a popular spot in the city and offers free admission to visitors on days including International Monuments day (18th April), International Museum Day ( 18th May), in memory of Melina Mercouri (6 March), etc. The museum also has a gift shop wherein you can shop for souvenirs, including a replica of ancient artifacts, statues, sculptures, and duplicates of finds from ancient Greece. Read More

The Folklore and History Museum of Kalamata is dedicated to preserving the heritage and old customs of the region. The museum nestles costumes, such as pieces of traditional clothing, artifacts of the local people including textiles, household items, pottery, agricultural tools, weaving, and farming tools as well as printing from 1821. There are also exhibits on the history of the medieval and modern history of Kalamata, including its role in the Second World war. Today, with a replica of the traditional coffee shop and pre-industrial life the museum has become a famous tourist attraction making it a distinct place of interest depicting the history and culture of the region. Read More

Overlooking the Nedontas river on a rocky hill lies the Kalamata Castle or the Castle of Kalamata, a fortress located in the center of the city. Built in the 13th century by Geoffrey Villehardouin the castle boasts two fortification systems, an arched gate, and several small towers. In addition, the wall of the arched gate is embossed with the lion of St Mark of Venice. While the castle was conquered by the Franks, the Byzantines, and the Venetians (the latter being depicted by its Venetian architecture), it underwent periods of destruction and rebuilding. The ruins of a temple, along with a water reservoir have also been found here. Today, the castle is a famous tourist attraction and an important landmark in Kalamata offering mesmerizing views of the city and the areas nearby. Read More

Kalamata, also famously known as the City of Dance, organizes the Kalamata International Dance Festival every year in July. The festival was initially started in 1989 by a dancer and choreographer named Rallou Manou. Today, it has become a cultural and artistic reference point in the country welcoming dancers, choreographers, and dance enthusiasts from all over the world to participate in the festival. In addition, the festival also conducts workshops, educational activities, and masterclasses for all age groups including Krump style worksop, along with contemporary dance performances of international and Greek Dance companies including the Elelei company, Jokerz Company, Full Time Company, and so on. The dance festival is a key event in the city and is conducted in the Kalamata Dance Megaron. The dance festival also collaborates with the Museum of Cycladic art to host a drawing competition for children. Read More

The Kalamata Promenade is a seaside walkway situated along the shore of the Gulf of Messinia with picturesque and enchanting views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains. A walk along the Promenade entails traversing across several cafes, restaurants, and shops, including Athanasiou bakery which is one of the famous shops here. The Promenade is a popular spot amongst locals and tourists for a stroll, bike ride, jogging, or exercising. Lined with palm trees, benches, and cafes, it is an idyllic spot for relaxing and enjoying the Mediterranean climate. Read More

The Military Museum of Kalamata is a three-story neoclassical building in Kalamata housing artifacts from the Greek revolution. Dedicated to the history of the Greek military, including Messina and Kalamata’s history, the museum holds a collection of uniforms, weapons, medals, and other military artifacts. The collections are from various periods in Greek history, including the Greek War of Independence (1821-1832), the Balkan Wars (1912-1913), and World War II. Most of the museum’s collection is from World War II including a British gun and an M48 Tank. There is also an 81mm German Mortar and an F-5 aircraft. Other notable exhibits here are the Asia Minor Catastrophe, and battles of Ochura and Crete. The museum also features several exhibits and interactive displays to provide an understanding of the role of the Greek military in the country's history. Read More

Paralia Kalamatas or Paralia Almyrou is a popular beach located in the city of Kalamata. Offering a long sandy and pebbly shoreline, crystal clear waters, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, Paralia is situated along the Gulf of Messinia. With taverns, cafes, and bars encompassing the beach, it is well-organized, with a few sun lounges, umbrellas, and showers. Water sports such as paddleboarding, kite surfing, and windsurfing are also available. In addition, it is in proximity to the Kalamata port and city center making it easily accessible from other places around the city. Read More

The Church of Ypapanti is a Greek Orthodox church dedicated to the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, also known as the Feast of Purification of the Virgin Mary. The church is situated in Chania on the island of Crete in Greece and is one of the cardinal religious and historical landmarks. The church originally housed the artworks of the Cretan school, however, later the church was dismantled. It was restored to its original form in 1996 and is now a popular tourist spot where tourists enjoy the picturesque views of the Bay of Gouvia. The church celebrated two feast days, including the 2nd of February and the 17th of July. Yepapanti church, also known as the Church of the Pentecost, is an exquisite church that was built in 1713 during Venetian rule. Read More