Friday, February 15, 2013

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, tranquil beaches, an enchanting promenade and interesting sights, Kalamata is one of the prettiest cities of the Peloponnese. Despite being the 10th largest city in Greece, Kalamata’s small historical centre and peaceful promenade give it a true small-town feel.

Take a stroll around the beautiful neoclassical buildings in the centre and discover its many sights: an impressive,13th-century, castle towering over the city, the  Benakeion Archaeological Museum's important collection of Messinian artifacts from the Bronze Age to Roman times, and the Folklore Museum with its relics from the Greek War of Independence.

Visit the Kalograion Monastery, whose nuns are famous for their silk-weaving tradition. The city also hosts a treasure for railway enthusiasts: the Railway Park, an open-aim museum that encompasses the city’s beautiful old railway station, including platforms, wagons, engines, a water-tower and much more.


The best way, however to enjoy this sun-drenched city is by the waterfront: dive into the waters of the 6-mile-long beach and enjoy the free sunbeds; take a leisurely walk around the port and the promenade, or stop into one the many tavernas and cafés. Don’t miss on the fabulous mountain tea from Taygetos Mountain, the delicious local cheeses and lalaghia, Kalamata’s pancakes.

 
And if you feel like an excursion, Kalamata is within an hour’s drive from the archaeological site of Olympia, the medieval castle of Mystras, the ravishing beaches of Navarino bay, and sublime Mani.