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Kalamata, the capital and central port of Messinia, is located at the site of ancient Farai. Following independence from the Turks and thanks to the exploitation of the fertile Messinian lands (producing olive oil, raisins, figs etc), it developed into a wealthy urban centre and a significant port. It is located 238 km SW of Athens.
Between the peaks of Mt Taygetos and the Gulf of Messinia, Kalamata has developed a cult following by those who have discovered it.
Arriving in Kalamata by plane or car, you may well be on your way to Mani, but why not stay a while and get caught up in its charms? Magnificent Mt Taygetos towers above a city that boasts modern cafes, beach bars, restaurants, hotels, markets, historic buildings, a port, a summer dance festival and a pulsating nightlife.
The capital of Messinia, knows just how to enjoy itself.
There are so many sides to Kalamata and it is worth getting to know them all.
Check out the fortified castle from the Middle Ages, the renowned dance festival that attracts fans from all over Europe, the nunnery where traditional handkerchiefs are still made by hand, neoclassical buildings, 19th-century churches, fashion boutiques, art shops and traditional cafes. This city is chock full of surprises!