Messenia Prefecture
Messenia Prefecture, Regional district in southwest Peloponnese, Greece
Messenia is a prefecture in southwest Peloponnese that includes mountains, coastal areas, fertile plains, and several historic settlements. The region features diverse landscapes shaped by different periods of human occupation across its territory.
The region experienced several ancient conflicts, particularly during the Messenian Wars when Sparta conquered the territory. These events shaped the area's political and social structure for centuries.
The regional unit preserves numerous fortified castles, including Methoni and Koroni, along with the Mycenaean palace of Nestor and Ancient Messene archaeological site.
Kalamata's airport connects the prefecture to major European cities, while roads link coastal towns with mountain villages throughout the area. These connections make exploring different parts of the region accessible.
The Gialova Lagoon in the area is an important stopping point for migratory birds crossing the Mediterranean and hosts a population of African chameleons. This rare combination of bird migration and exotic reptiles makes the location particularly noteworthy.
Location: Peloponnese Region
Capital city: Kalamata
GPS coordinates: 37.16667,22.00000
Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:40
Mystras
34.2 km
Taygetus
32.4 km
Temple of Apollo Epicurius in Bassae
30.6 km
Apidima Cave
64.3 km
Church of Hagia Theodora
20.9 kmPylos Combat Agate
31.1 km
Messene
7.2 km
Palace of Nestor
31.2 km
Karytaina
35.6 kmGriffin Warrior Tomb
31.1 km
Cave of Caiada
31.3 km
Diros cave
67.9 km
Monastery of Panayia Yiatrissa
49.4 km
Voidokilia beach
37.5 km
Pylos
31.2 km
Itomi
6.9 km
Methoni Castle
47.1 km
Voulkano Monastery
5.2 km
Old Navarino Castle
38.3 km
Agia Sofia church
34.1 km
Polylimnio waterfalls
24.2 km
Pantanassa Monastery
34.4 km
Lepreon
39 kmPanagia Giatrissa
49.4 km
Bay of Navarino
38.3 km
New Navarino Fortress
39.4 km
Archaeological Site of Ancient Messene
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