Plizio Visual Lab

Kalamata

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Port

Weather…

Kalamata is the second-largest city in the Peloponnese and the capital of the Messenia regional unit in southwestern Greece. Situated on the shores of the Messinian Gulf at the foot of Mount Taygetos, the city is globally renowned for its export of premium black olives and high-quality olive oil. The historical heart of the city is the 13th-century medieval castle built by the Villehardouin family, which overlooks the old town and the surrounding fertile plains. Kalamata suffered a devastating earthquake in 1986, but subsequent reconstruction turned it into a modern, earthquake-resistant city with wide avenues and spacious public areas. The coastal promenade stretches for several kilometers, linking the urban center with the pristine beaches of the gulf. Culturally, the city is famous for the Kalamata International Dance Festival, held annually in July, which draws acclaimed performers from around the world. Today, Kalamata serves as a major economic hub, equipped with an international airport and a modern port that facilitates tourism throughout the southern Peloponnese.

Location: Greece
Nearby: Messini (9 km)
Population: ~54.100 (2016)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	10	11	13	15	19	24	27	27	24	20	16	12
Rain mm	111	81	59	30	21	26	13	9	55	68	102	113

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

Kalamata is a major port city on the Messenian Gulf in the southern Peloponnese, world-famous for its olives and olive oil. The port serves both fishing and freight traffic, and is an important departure point for ferries to the southern regions.

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Visiting

The port of Kalamata is publicly accessible, with a long promenade along the quays where fishing boats and yachts are moored. Cargo areas are cordoned off, but one can observe the daily harbor activities from up close, especially the fish auction.

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Where to view it

The best view over the bay and harbor is from the Venetian castle of Kalamata on a hill above the city. From the seafront promenade, one has a beautiful view of ships coming and going against the backdrop of the Taygetos Mountains.

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Local products

Kalamata is famous for its large, dark olives and high-quality olive oil, sold in many shops around the port. Seasonal products like figs, grapes, and citrus fruits are abundant at local markets, especially during autumn harvest time.

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Active season

The port is active year-round, with peak times in summer when tourists arrive and fishing is particularly productive. The olive harvest in autumn generates additional freight traffic as olives are transported to processing facilities.

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Nearby

A port visit in Kalamata can be perfectly combined with a hike in the Taygetos Mountains or a trip to the ancient city of Messene. The old town of Kalamata with its narrow streets and traditional tavernas is also worth a stroll.

Geography

Population

54,100 (2016)

Coordinates

37.03910, 22.11250

Facts

The Castle of Kalamata was constructed during the Frankish occupation in the 13th century.
Kalamata was the first Greek city to be liberated during the War of Independence in 1821.
The city is home to a unique open-air Railway Park museum showcasing vintage locomotives.
The 1986 earthquake measured 6.2 on the Richter scale and caused significant damage.
Kalamata is known for its 'Pasteli,' a traditional snack made of sesame seeds and honey.
The Church of the Holy Apostles in the old town dates back to the Byzantine era (11th-13th c.).