Colors of Kalamata - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Kalamata is the second most populous city of the Peloponnese peninsula, but its population is just a bit more than half a hundred thousand people. On the other hand, this is a city with centuries-old history. Kalamata became the cradle of the liberation movement of the Greeks against Turkish invaders. Kalamata is full of contrasts. Local people love their home city and are very proud of it. That is why they are always ready to tell interesting stories about the glorious military past of the city and how their “great grand grandfathers fought together with rebels for the freedom of Greece”.

Indigenous people are very friendly and talkative. They are used to a big number of tourists and are always ready to help. The most important thing is not to criticize the decisions of their government. These talks can cause arguments with locals and this fact can make your vacation in Kalamata less pleasant. So, it is better to stay tactful and polite, show respect for different cultures, and then your vacation will be simply unforgettable. Tourists should also be prepared for the unhurried lifestyle in the region and dividing a day into two parts. In summer, many establishments close for siesta starting from approximately 1 pm to 5 pm.

The city was almost completely destroyed during its long history. For the last time, this happened because of a devastating earthquake in the middle of the 20th century. However, Kalamata was rebuilt after every disaster and became even more beautiful. Naturally, this has made an impact on the character of local people. They are hardworking and diligent, always fight until the end and love their motherland with all their heart. For a long time, the city was one of the most important ports in Greece. As it was an important staging area, Kalamata was developing rapidly, making local people even more proud of their home city. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Quite an interesting fact – in the opinion of some historians, the ancient city of Fares was once located on the site of an old castle in Kalamata. According to Greek mythology, king Agamemnon offered this city to Achilles in order to make peace with the hero. Some historic data also mentions a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary that was built on the hill during the Byzantine period. In accordance with a legend, the church kept an icon of the patron saint of the city. People called that icon “Kalomata”, which means “beautiful eyes”. This nickname gave the name to the city, but one letter was changed – Greek letter Omicron was replaced with Alpha.

The International Dance Festival is one of the most important events in the cultural life of the city. Every year, graduates of several internationally famous dancing schools come to Kalamata to compete for the right to be called the best in this art. The festival usually starts in the middle of July and lasts 10 days. This is the time when both locals and guests of the city can enjoy spectacular dancing performances and innovative choreography or participate in interesting master-classes. The event is held at the International Dance Center and some other venues in the city.

Every year, Kalamata celebrates Independence Day of Greece. Traditionally, the holiday is celebrated on March 25 that coincides with the Annunciation. It is a country-wide holiday, the date of which is not random. It is believed that the announcement about the rebellion and soon-to-happen independence of Greece from Turkish invaders helped the rebels to keep fighting and free a part of the country. Independence Day is widely celebrated throughout the country. For example, the president and clerical establishment visited Kalamata in 2015. The head of the country participated in the reconstructed fight of the rebels and occupants and received the status of an honorary resident of Kalamata. The clergy held a special liturgy in the church of the Holy Apostles.

At the end of October, whole Greece, and Kalamata is no exception, celebrates the holiday called Ohi Day or a holiday dedicated to “No”. This holiday is dedicated to the events of October 28, 1940, when Mussolini made an ultimatum to Greece: either Greece capitulates and lets occupants enter its territory or Mussolini will declare war to the country. After a discussion, the prime minister of Greece gave a short answer – “No”. After a series of devastating conflicts, the Greek army defeated the invaders and the famous “Ohi” (No) became a popular battle-cry. For the celebration, streets of Kalamata are decorated with the country’s flags, and the main square hosts a festive parade.

At the end of August, Kalamata hosts one more interesting event: the annual marathon swim organized by the local marine club. Both Greek swimmers and sportsmen from other countries participate in this competition. The total length of the route is approximately 30 kilometers. Participants need to cross the Messenian Gulf. The route of the marathon is usually the following: Kalamata – Velikas area – Kalamata. Spectators can watch the start and end of the competition in the city, and watch the marathon broadcasted on the local TV and on big screens right on the streets.