Kalamata: The Jewel of the Peloponnese

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είσαι;
  [Pos ise;]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
  [Kala. Esi;]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
  [Milate anglika;]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Iyia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosó, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Πήγαινε μακριά!
  [Pigaine makria!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε ένα γιατρό!
  [Kaleste ena giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eimai arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi;]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na miosete tin time;]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine;]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (δέκα)
  [Misi (deka)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Aurio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Επτά
  [Epta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένας/η...;
  [Pou ine enas/i...;]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi;]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti);]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio);]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (προς ....)
  [Ena isitirio (pros ....)]

Kalamata, located in the Messenia region of the Peloponnese, has a deep-rooted history dating back to ancient times. The area was inhabited as early as the Bronze Age, and by the Mycenaean period, it had developed significant settlements. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Mycenaeans constructed impressive structures and engaged in extensive trade, laying the groundwork for Kalamata’s early development.

During the Byzantine era, Kalamata experienced substantial growth and prosperity. The city became an important trade and cultural center, connecting the eastern and western parts of the Byzantine Empire. Notable remnants from this period include the Church of the Holy Apostles, which dates back to the 12th century and stands as a testament to the city's religious and architectural significance during the Byzantine period.

In 1205, Kalamata fell under Frankish rule following the Fourth Crusade. The Villehardouin family, who controlled much of the Peloponnese, fortified the city and constructed the imposing Kalamata Castle. This period saw the introduction of feudalism and the establishment of a courtly culture. The castle remains one of the most significant historical landmarks in the city, offering panoramic views of Kalamata and the surrounding region.

Kalamata came under Ottoman control in the mid-15th century, marking a new chapter in its history. The city became a hub of administrative and military activity, with the Ottomans building mosques, baths, and other infrastructure. Despite the challenges of foreign rule, Kalamata maintained its cultural identity, with local traditions and customs continuing to thrive.

Kalamata played a pivotal role in the Greek War of Independence against Ottoman rule. On March 23, 1821, the city became one of the first to be liberated by Greek revolutionary forces. This event is commemorated annually with celebrations and parades, highlighting Kalamata's critical contribution to the fight for Greek independence.

In the modern era, Kalamata has emerged as a vibrant city blending historical legacy with contemporary culture. The city was heavily damaged in the 1986 earthquake but underwent significant reconstruction, preserving its historic character while modernizing its infrastructure. Today, Kalamata is known for its lively festivals, culinary delights, particularly its famous olives, and a growing cultural scene that attracts visitors from around the world.

Kalamata is located in the southern part of the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece. The nearest international airport is Kalamata International Airport (KLX), which offers direct flights from several European cities, especially during the summer season. Alternatively, you can fly into Athens International Airport (ATH) and then take a bus or drive to Kalamata. The journey from Athens to Kalamata takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car via the A7 motorway, or around 4 hours by long-distance KTEL bus.

Kalamata offers a variety of transportation options. The city has a reliable and affordable public bus system that covers most areas. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. For those looking to explore the surrounding regions, renting a car is a convenient option. Additionally, Kalamata is a bike-friendly city with several rental shops offering bicycles for daily use.

The official currency in Greece is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Kalamata, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and most international cards are accepted for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or markets.

Kalamata is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid carrying large sums of money or wearing expensive jewelry. Be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. The city does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always wise to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Kalamata has a well-equipped hospital, General Hospital of Kalamata, for medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For police assistance, dial 100.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering churches, cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be respectful; offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kalamata like a local, visit the central market (Agora) where you can buy fresh produce and local goods. Engage with locals who are often friendly and eager to share stories about the area. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the historic old town and the Kalamata Castle for stunning views. For a unique local experience, attend one of the many cultural festivals that take place throughout the year, such as the Kalamata International Dance Festival.