Koroni
KORONI: the Island Beauty
On the southwestern coast of the Messinian Peninsula, 52 km from Kalamata, is situated the town of Koroni, crowned by an imposing Venetian fortress, which dominates the hilltop. This town is unique and captivating at the same time. It is built amphitheatrically with view to the small bay, in a way very reminiscent of the Cycladic Islands.
Between the sea and the hills covered with olive trees, one can see colorful houses with tiled roofs, wooden balconies and flower gardens, while the whitewashed paths lead you through a small square to the famous castle.
Inside this Venetian castle, built in the place of a Byzantine fortress, near the carved tombs, the cisterns and the Turkish bath, now stands the imposing Church of Our Lady the Merciful (“Eleistria”). From the large churchyard one can admire the endless beach of Zaga.
The Zaga beach is a visual feast. Seeing the transparent turquoise sea waters, nobody can resist diving, playing games and endless hours of sunbathing.
In the local harbor restaurants and traditional fish taverns offer local delicacies and meals. The big variety of seafood, appetizers and ouzo come and go, and the local people welcome the visitors with a warm smile.
Before you leave, do not forget to buy “Koroneiki” olives and extra virgin olive oil, for which this region is famous.
