By Nicolas Bard

Its modern city Kalamatabuilt at the foot of the imposing Taygetos and his heart Messinian Gulfcombines what we call “mountain and sea”. The coastline of the city will be at first glance, while the intense pace will give you the impression that this city is never sleeping! With countless cafes, restaurants, taverns, hotels and a bright nightlife, Kalamata can satisfy even the most demanding visitors. Let’s go together five reasons, worth a visit to Messinia’s noble!

1. A city, infinite faces

Kalamata is a city with many interesting faces, who “unfold” in front of your eyes from corner to corner. Each area a different picture, which has a separate story to tell. The castle with its impressive walls, the monastery of Kalograia, where even today they are made by the famous Kalamatian scarves, the famous Kalamata Dance Festival, the neoclassical buildings and the outstretched squares, the 19th century temples and the rich market of the city, with many traditions!

2. The endless beach in the shadow of Taygetos

From Verga to the port of Kalamata, a unique beach with a total length of 5 kilometers is spread out. Walk barefoot in the sand and take a dip, or if you are more adventurous, make a water sports. Just above the beach you will find dozens of shops, cafes, taverns, ouzo and hotels that will make sure your stay in the city is unforgettable. If you go to the city in winter again, you can just sit in a beach shop, and enjoy the sea view, drinking a warm drink.

3. The theme park of railways

It is one of the first theme parks in Greece, which holds a special place in the heart and collective memory of the locals, as there were scenes where many lived after the devastating earthquake of 1986. Inside the park you will see vaporizers, a diesel and passenger and passenger. The whole area exudes vintage vibes and retro charm! You will also see the waterfall with the stone cylindrical base, boarding platforms and a 28 -meter -long metal footbridge. All this hidden in the green.

4. The city’s historical sights

Kalamata has a great story that is worth getting to know. Wherever you find yourself, you will see a historical monument. The famous church of Ypapanti, which stands out from afar with its bells and its silver domes, the Municipal Conservatory on Alexandraki Street, the neoclassical building of the historic and folklore museum, the Otto Square, where it was once hosted by the Central Market. Mosaic, fascinating from side to side.

5. Ancient Messina

About 30 kilometers from Kalamata you will find one of the most important archaeological sites not only in the Peloponnese but also of the whole of Greece. Ancient Messina, dating from the 4th century BC, is full of cultural treasures and well -preserved monuments. The archaeological site includes temples, houses, walls and public buildings, preserved in good condition. Among other things you will see the wall dominated by the Arcadian gate and its eight towers, public buildings, the market, the Temple of Artemis Phosphorus or Orthias, the Stadium, the Hero, the Theater, the Fountain
and many houses. Since the summer of 2013, the ancient theater of Messina has been renovated and reopened, hosting many cultural events.