Things to Do in Kalamata

Kalamata is the world's largest producer of Kalamata olives, which grow exclusively in this region and have a protected designation of origin.

The city was almost entirely rebuilt after a devastating 1986 earthquake that killed over 20 people and destroyed much of its infrastructure.

Kalamata's main beach, Kalamata City Beach, stretches for 14 km along the Messinian Gulf and is one of Greece's longest urban beaches.

The city is home to the Kalamata International Dance Festival, held biennially since 1981, attracting contemporary dance companies from around the world.

Kalamata olives are typically harvested green and brined (or sometimes black-ripened), and the curing process takes several months before they reach markets worldwide.