Kalamata
Kalamata, the capital of Messinia, is built inside the Messinian Gulf and is an important urban, economic and commercial center. It is the second largest city in the Peloponnese, but also one of the most important ports in southern Greece. It is a vibrant city, well-known and with particular artistic sensibilities. It harmoniously blends the mountain with the sea, history with modern life, alternative tourism activities, relaxation on its endless beaches, good food and entertainment. Everything a visitor needs for a pleasant stay.
During the ancient times, in the place of the Messinian capital there was the flourishing town of Fares, which is also mentioned by Homer. Kalamata took its present name, in the Middle Ages, from a monastery dedicated to mother Mary “Kalomata” .
Tourism
Pure bathing fun and more...
Only 2.5 hours from Athens and direct flight to many European cities in the summer, Messinia and especially Kalamata is a modern tourist city. It is a city that respects the traveler, offering him the security and culture of a capital city and at the same time the magic and beauties of our islands. Endless beaches of pebbles or sand, organized or simply bathed in the endless blue and light of the Mediterranean, are just a challenge to discover! There are infinite escapes in the surrounding areas combining all forms of alternative tourism.
Our front office staff will be more than willing to provide you with all the information needed.
Nature
300 sunny days per year
Belonging to the southernmost cities of Europe, in Kalamata the mean annual temperature is around 26 degrees – the mildest climate of Peloponnesus. Its position on the 37. latitude is just like that of Miami.
Kalamata, the capital of Messinia, is situated in the submontane area of the Taygetos mountains (2.400m high) in the heart of the wide Messenian gulf. The world’s famous ‘rough Mani’, Sparta, the caves of Diros as well as all the other antique sights of Peloponnesus are in close distance: Methoni, Pylos, the old Messene, Olympia, Koroni, Epidaurus…
Culture
Kalamata - a city with a long history
Enjoy the sparkling excitement and visit Kalamatas cultural sights. Worth a trip is for example the little church ‘Agii Apostoli’ from the 10th century or the castle of Kalamata, the ‘Kastro’ – which is just a short walk away (10 minutes) from the Hotel Rex. This impressive scene is often used as a location for theatre and movie shows, which are put on more and more during the summer months by Kalamata’s cultural office, the Pantazopoulion.
Another gem is the archäological museum which displays objects found in Messenia. For train enthusiasts Kalamatas historical train museum is a must-see.