Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Historical & Folklore Museum of Kalamata
MUSEUM
( 27210 28449; Ioannou 12, cnr Kyriakou; adult/concession €2/1; 9am-1pm Tue-Sat,
10am-1pm Sun)
This eggshell-blue building holds an exquisite collection of donated local
artefacts - from tools and looms to household items and clothes - that offer a thorough
insight into Kalamata's bygone era. It's professionally run and well worth supporting.
Military Museum
MUSEUM
( 27210 21219; Mitropolitou Meletiou 10; 9am-2pm Tue-Sat, plus 6-8pm Wed, 11am-2pm Sun)
This museum's displays span a broad chronological sweep of Greek history from
the Turkish occupation (depicted in grisly paintings) to the 21st century. National ser-
vicemen take guided tours (English speakers are supposedly available but, unfortunately,
all signage is in Greek).
KALAMATA OLIVES
Kalamata gives its name to the prized Kalamata olive, a plump, purple-black variety
that is found in delicatessens around the world and is also grown extensively (al-
though not exclusively) in neighbouring Lakonia. The region's reliable winter rains
and hot summers make for perfect olive-growing conditions.
The Kalamata tree is distinguished from the common olive (grown for oil) by the
size of its leaves. Like its fruit, the leaves of the Kalamata are twice the size of other
varieties and a darker shade of green.
Unlike other varieties, Kalamata olives can't be picked green. They ripen in late
November and must be hand-picked to avoid bruising. You can buy and sample
these famous olives at the markets in Kalamata.
Festivals & Events
Kalamata International Dance Festival
MUSIC
(
www.kalamatadancefestival.gr
)
In July each year, this festival draws crowds to its quality
performances of traditional music and dance. Venues include the amphitheatre of the
kastro
. See the website for dates and prices.
Sleeping & Eating
