KALAMATA
Built by the Venetians in the early 13th century on a rocky promontory, the castle of Methoni is among the largest ones in the Mediterranean. You will be impressed by the 14 arch stone bridge connecting the castle to the shore, which replaced the timber one that stood there before the Venetians. The celebrated symbol of Venice, the lion of San Marco, is engraved on the gate of the castle. You will also see emblems, blazons, inscriptions, and reliefs belonging to Venetian lords, the relics of two Ottoman bathhouses, the Loredan and Bembo bastions, parts of Agia Sophia Byzantine Church, the chapel of Agia Sotira built in 1830 by the French, and the Morozini Column among other sights.
Opposite the south edge of the castle lies the fortified Bourtzi islet, which used to be a prison and place for executions during the Turkish Occupation. It was built in 1500 and is connected to the Castle Gate via a paved path.
Suggestions:
The castle of Methoni
A Venetian Tower in the Peloponnese
In south Messinia, at the first leg of the Peloponnese peninsula, there are two beautiful little towns: picturesque Methoni overlooking the Ionian Sea and the island comlex of Oinousses, and colourful Koroni, a place with an island feel. Thanks to their strategic position, they have been important trade and maritime centres. This is also why they were conquered across the centuries by the then ruling powers.Built by the Venetians in the early 13th century on a rocky promontory, the castle of Methoni is among the largest ones in the Mediterranean. You will be impressed by the 14 arch stone bridge connecting the castle to the shore, which replaced the timber one that stood there before the Venetians. The celebrated symbol of Venice, the lion of San Marco, is engraved on the gate of the castle. You will also see emblems, blazons, inscriptions, and reliefs belonging to Venetian lords, the relics of two Ottoman bathhouses, the Loredan and Bembo bastions, parts of Agia Sophia Byzantine Church, the chapel of Agia Sotira built in 1830 by the French, and the Morozini Column among other sights.
Opposite the south edge of the castle lies the fortified Bourtzi islet, which used to be a prison and place for executions during the Turkish Occupation. It was built in 1500 and is connected to the Castle Gate via a paved path.
Suggestions:
- Stroll in the scenic town and marvel at the local well-preserved architecture.
- Visit the catacombs of St Onoufrios (2km N of Methoni) and the Catholic monastery of St Leon.
- Swim at the beautiful beach by the castle, as well as at the beaches of Mavrovouni, Amenomylos, Loutsa and Akritika.
- Take a trip to Sapientza Island, where you will also see the very friendly kri kri goat, an impressive stone lighthouse and a beautiful sandy beach.
