Kalamata
Kalamata
Kalamata is the second most populous city of the Peloponnese peninsula in southern Greece. The capital and chief port of the Messenia regional unit, it lies along the Nedon River at the head of the Messenian Gulf. Kalamata is renowned as the land of the Kalamata olives and Kalamata olive oil.
The history of Kalamata begins with Homer, who mentions Pharai, an ancient city built more or less where the Kalamata Castle stands today. It was believed that during ancient times the area that the city presently occupies was covered by the sea, but the proto-Greek and archaic period remains (Poseidon temple) that were unearthed at Akovitika region prove the opposite.
Today, Kalamata has the second largest population and mercantile activity in Peloponnese. It makes important exports, particularly of local products such as olives and olive oil.
Kalamata is one of the most gifted cities in Greece, mostly thanks to its geographic position. Situated in the heart of the crystal-blue Messinian Bay and on the roots of the imposing Mountain Taygetos, it is a heaven for its inhabitants. Also, Kalamata is the ideal base for those who want to discover the secrets of Messinia, since it is situated in a central spot of the region and all the tourist and cultural destinations are not further than one hour in car.