After Olympia we were heading to Kalamata to stay overnight. To be honest, there is not much to do there. However, Kalamata is famous for its delicious Kalamata olives, which are known for their rich, fruity flavor. It is also known for its vibrant cultural scene and historical landmarks, such as the Kalamata Castle.
Kalamata is a coastal city located in the Messenia region (south Greece). It has a long and colorful history dating back to ancient times.
The city was first established as a settlement in the 13th century BC by the ancient Greeks. It was then known as Pharai and was an important center for trade and commerce. The city flourished under the rule of the Spartans and became one of their main ports.
During the Byzantine period, Kalamata continued to thrive and became an important fortress and trading hub. It played a significant role in the Byzantine Empire’s defense against various invasions and attacks.
In the 13th century AD, the city fell under the control of the Venetians and became a prosperous maritime republic. During this time, Kalamata experienced a period of economic growth and cultural development. The Venetians fortified the city with walls and established a strong navy.
In the 15th century, Kalamata fell under Ottoman rule, along with the rest of Greece. The city’s strategic location made it an important stronghold for the Ottomans, who used it as a base for their military operations in the region. However, Kalamata also suffered from periodic raids and attacks by pirates.
In the early 19th century, the Greek War of Independence broke out, and Kalamata became a key battleground. The city played a central role in the revolution, and its residents actively participated in the fight for independence. In 1821, the city was liberated from Ottoman rule, and Kalamata became part of the newly established Kingdom of Greece.
In the 20th century, Kalamata experienced periods of growth and development. The city developed a thriving agricultural industry, particularly in the production of olives and olive oil, for which it is famous. Kalamata also suffered significant damage during World War II, but it was rebuilt and expanded in the post-war period.
Our Hotel in Kalamata

The hotel looks alright from inside, but in the rooms the furniture is quite old. The fridge was not cleaned properly and was full of ice. Very nice pool that is open till 8:00pm, but sometimes stays open longer as the discretion of the manager. The Biggest problem was air conditioning, which was just blowing wind, but not cooling, so in the room was 30-32C. Reading comments, it is a common issue in this hotel and staff couldn’t do anything about it. I do not recommend this hotel. It seems best to book 4 stars only.



Kalamata at night
We took a short stroll to the restaurant and it seemed people were staying by the sea even after sunset in the dark. Restaurants were quiet empty, probably due to unbearable heat.



We stopped for a dinner in half empty restaurant. The menu was somewhat confusing and waiter could not explain it in English, so he called for another wiater, but she also could not explain what was meat 1 and meat 2 dishes. Anyway, we ordered some food and it was good, totaling € 41.50 for two.




Kalamata Market

The receptionist in the hotel recommended to go to Kalamata Market to buy olive oil and olives.
Olive oil is much cheaper than in Athens (€ 6-7 instead of 16-20 for 0.5l). However, olives in the vacuum cost the same in the airport (~ € 3), so it’s not worth boiling them in your car (due to the heat they were super hot!).
The people were super friendly in the Kalamata Market. We’ve got oil tasting before buying, though sometimes I was confused why they pour half shot of oil as if I am going to drink it. Also the guy in the coffee shop was asking where are we from and he knew the name Lithuania because of Lithuanian player in Greek basketball team.







Kalamata’s Castle (Κάστρο Καλαμάτας)
Kalamata’s Castle, also known as the Castle of Villehardouin, sits on a hill overlooking the city and the Messenian Gulf.
The castle dates back to the 13th century when it was built by the Frankish Prince of Achaea, Geoffrey I de Villehardouin. It served as a strategic fortress to protect the region from invasions.
During its early years, Kalamata’s Castle witnessed many conflicts and changed hands several times between various rulers. In 1380, it was conquered by the Venetians, who made significant additions and modifications to the original structure.
In 1460, the Ottomans captured the castle and remained in control for nearly four centuries. During this time, they further fortified and expanded the castle, making it even more impenetrable.
In 1825, during the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire, the castle was a key battleground. The Greeks, under the command of General Theodoros Kolokotronis, successfully liberated Kalamata after a long siege.
Unfortunately, much of the castle was destroyed during the liberation. However, it was later partially restored during the early 20th century.
The entrance to the castle was only € 3!










Kalamaris Waterfall (Καταράκτης Καλάμαρης)
Kalamaris Waterfall is famous for its natural beauty and the picturesque landscape surrounding it. The waterfall is located in the village of Kalamaris in Greece, and it offers breathtaking views with its cascading water and lush greenery. Tourists visit the waterfall to enjoy hiking, picnicking, photography, and immersing themselves in nature. It is also a popular spot for swimming in the pool formed at the base of the waterfall during the summer months.
Bourtzi of Methoni Castle (Μπούρτζι Κάστρου Μεθώνης)
Bourtzi of Methoni Castle is a medieval fortress located in the town of Methoni, in the southwestern part of the Peloponnese region in Greece. The castle was built in the 13th century by the Venetians, who ruled over the region at that time.
The fortress served as an important stronghold for the Venetians, as it guarded the strategic port of Methoni. It was constructed on a rocky islet just off the coast and was connected to the mainland by a stone bridge. The castle was designed in a unique hexagonal shape, with six towers surrounding a central courtyard.
Over the centuries, Methoni Castle changed hands several times, as different powers vied for control of the region. In 1500, it fell to the Ottoman Empire, which ruled over Greece until the Greek War of Independence in the early 19th century.
During the Ottoman rule, the castle underwent several modifications and additions. The Ottomans constructed new fortifications and barracks within the castle walls. They also converted some of the buildings into mosques and other Islamic structures.
In 1686, during the Great Turkish War, Methoni Castle was temporarily captured by the Republic of Venice. However, it was soon recaptured by the Ottomans, who retained control until the 1820s.
In 1821, at the onset of the Greek War of Independence, residents of Methoni rebelled against Ottoman rule and captured the castle. The Greek revolutionaries used the fortress as a base and held off Ottoman attacks for several months. However, in August 1825, Ottoman forces retook the castle and massacred most of its defenders.
After Greek independence was achieved in 1829, Methoni Castle lost its military significance and fell into disrepair. The fortress was abandoned for many years and suffered further damage from earthquakes.
In recent decades, efforts have been made to restore and preserve Bourtzi of Methoni Castle. The castle is now open to tourists and offers panoramic views of the town and the sea.
Voidokilia Beach (Παραλία Βοϊδοκοιλιάς)
Voidokilia Beach is famous for its stunning beauty and unique shape. It is a horseshoe-shaped beach with crystal clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand. The beach is situated in the Bay of Navarino, in the Messinia region of Greece. Voidokilia Beach is also known for its natural surroundings, including the lush green hills and the Gialova lagoon, which is home to diverse wildlife. Additionally, the beach holds historical significance as it is believed to have been mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey.
Due to the scorching heat, we didn’t stop in the beach, as it was unbearable to stay in the sun.