Kalamata

The small but historic Church of the Holy Apostles stands in Kalamata’s old town and is closely associated with the outbreak of the Greek War of Independence in 1821. Architecturally, it combines a 12th-century Byzantine core with later additions, including a larger western section and bell tower. Inside, fragments of medieval frescoes survive.

is a beautiful building of the Venetian-type built in 1742, where many interesting archaeological findings are exhibited, including a mosaic from Koroni that represents scenes from the worship of Bacchus.

houses works of art that were donated after the destructive earthquake of Kalamata in 1986.

is housed in a small restored building. Visitors can see objects that date back to the Revolution of 1821, as well as read detailed information about the agricultural and productive life of Messinian inhabitants during the last century.

built in the 19th century in a Byzantine-style, is a grandiose temple dedicated to the city's protector.

On the steps above the temple and host of music events organised almost every weekend.

The castle is even higher up, on a pine-covered hill overlooking the sea. Built in 1208 by Gulielme Villearduin, it inspired Aggelos Terzakis's novel about Princess Izampo who had lived in the area. At the foot of the castle there is the semi-cavernous Temple of Saint John that has probably existed since the post-Byzantine years. It is said that the citadel of ancient Pharai was below the castle.

built beside the castle in the 18th century, you will also learn about the ongoing Byzantine tradition of weaving pure silk on “lakkoi” (looms).