ANCIENT MESSENE & OLIVE OIL TOUR
About this tour
Discover the wonders of Ancient Messene, enjoy a delightful lunch in the vibrant city of Kalamata, and immerse yourself in the art of olive oil tasting. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy in the heart of Messenia.
Ancient Messene is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece and is located in the southern Peloponnese, in the region of Messinia. It was founded in the 4th century BC by the general Epaminondas, after his victory against Sparta at the Battle of Mantinea (362 BC), and the city was built to replace Messina, which was destroyed by the Spartans.
The site of Ancient Messene is very well preserved and hosts a number of important monuments, such as the theater, the stadium, the gymnasium, the temples and the city walls. It is extremely popular for the abundance of archaeological finds and the good condition in which it is preserved. The city had great strategic and cultural importance in antiquity, while excavations continue today, revealing new elements of its history.
Here’s What Awaits You:
✔ Visit to Ancient Messene, explore the archaeological site and its rich history (ticket included)
✔ Free day in Kalamata, perfect for discovering its charming sights, relaxing by the beach, and savoring a lovely lunch at your leisure (lunch not included).
✔ Olive oil tasting with a certified olive oil sommelier, where you’ll discover the secrets of this liquid gold (tasting price included)
Book this tour
Price: 140€ - 300€ per Adult
Teenager(s) (Years: 13-18): 90€
Children (Years: 2-13): 55€
Infant(s) (Years: 0-2): FREE
Special offer
Group of 2-4 adults: -120€ per adult
Group of 5-8 adults: -160€ per adult
Itinerary
Ancient Messene - 10:30 AM
The archaeological site of ancient Messene lies in a fertile valley in the center of the Region of Messenia. It lies just south of Mt. Ithome which was the strongest natural and manmade fortress of Messenia, controlling the valleys of Stenyclaros and Makaria. The site dates back to the Late Neolithic or the Early Bronze Age. In the 9th-8th century BC, the cult of Zeus Ithomatas was established on the peak of Mt Ithome. A shrine was founded in the lower city during the Geometric period (800-700 BC), along with other sanctuaries. All the sacred buildings belonged to the town of Ithome. The area came under Spartan annexation after the First Messenian War (743-724 BC).
The city of Ancient Messene was founded in 369 BC by the Theban general Epaminondas (after the Battle of Leuctra in 371 BC, which resulted in Spartan defeat. It became the capital of the free Messenian state following four centuries of occupation by the Spartans.
Strong fortification walls with towers and gates are preserved, surrounding the city where many sanctuaries stood. On the site many public and religious buildings are preserved. The Asklepieion, with the Doric sanctuary of Asklepios, which is surrounded by religious and funerary buildings, the exceptional Theatre complex, the Ecclesiasterion-Odeion, and the Bouleuterion, are to name a few. The Fountain of Arsinoe, the Agora and the Stadium, and many funerary monuments like the monumental Saithid Mausoleum, bear witness to the size of the city and its political, religious, economic and social importance. Later day Roman villas with mosaic floors complete the urban plan.
A plethora of statues and exhibits are on display at the nearby Archaeological Museum, testifying to the thriving society of Messene.
Messene is one of the most important cities of antiquity and has the rare advantage of not having been destroyed or covered by later settlements. It also lies in an untouched Mediterranean natural environment. The monuments of Ancient Messene preserve all of the elements that make up the ancient Greek way of life in an ancient Greek city which are secular, religious, political, administrative, residential and funerary.
Free day in Kalamata - 13:00 PM
Kalamata is the second largest city of the Peloponnese and the capital and main port of Messinia. Located on the ancient site of Farai, it is a rich area which is well known for the Kalamata Olive and the production of Kalamata olive oil, raisins, figs and other fruits and vegetables in the fertile Messinian area. Over time it developed into a wealthy urban center and a significant port city.
You can visit the legendary “castle of Isabeau” that lies on the site of the Farai acropolis which offers an amazing view of the city. It was constructed in the 13th century by William Villehardouin who was of Frankish origin. It has gone through various changes and additions over time by the Venetians and the Turks that ruled the area. Nowadays, it is an ideal open air venue for theatre, music and dance shows.
The Old city or Palia Poli lies at the foot of the Castle. In the area is the Metropolitan Panagia Ipapanti church (1873), the patron saint of Kalamata. It is a very lively place with many churches like the the 13th century Byzantine church of Agioi Apostoloi and the 12th century Kalograion Monastery. Many cafes, bars and restaurants fill the area and it is the hotspot for the city’s youth and nightlife.
Visit also the Grand Strand of Beaches in the south of the city which is full of cafes, bars, restaurants and other entertainment that cover every need for a relaxing day at the beach.
Olive oil Tasting – 4:00 PM
Dive into the world of olive oil with a hands-on tasting experience that highlights the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Guided by a certified olive oil sommelier, participants will explore the characteristics of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, focusing on its fruitiness, bitterness, and pungency. You’ll learn how to evaluate and identify premium olive oils, uncover key varieties, and detect common defects.
As part of the session, you’ll also savor the famous Kalamata olives and sample olive paste, gaining a deeper appreciation for their flavors and culinary uses. Discover the vital role of extra virgin olive oil in cooking and receive tips on recognizing its authenticity and quality. This is a unique opportunity to enrich your palate and embrace the traditions of Kalamata’s renowned olive culture.
