Kavala is the principal seaport of eastern Macedonia and widely regarded as one of the most picturesque cities in Greece.
Description
Set on the Bay of Kavala, across from the island of Thasos, Kavala is the principal seaport of eastern Macedonia and the capital of the Kavala region. Amphitheatrically built on the slopes of Mt. Symvolo it is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque cities in Greece.
According to archaeological finds, the city’s history dates back to prehistoric times although today the city boasts a unique character reflecting its recent past where neoclassical mansions and big tobacco warehouses sit side by side evoking memories of the city’s past.
The city’s most popular meeting point is Eleftheria Square, whilst Megalou Alexandrou Pedestrian Street features chic shops, cafes, bars as well as an old tobacco warehouse that has been transformed into a shopping centre. Close to Eleftherias Square lies the old scenic neighbourhood of Agios Nikolaos, where the homonymous church (a former mosque) is situated. On the relics of an ancient pillar, one can also see what, according to tradition, is the footprint of the Apostle Paul – a lasting souvenir from the time that he first visited Macedonia.
Kavala is the perfect place for those looking to explore reminders of the region’s fascinating past, whilst enjoying the wide range of entertainments on offer. With fantastic beaches close by and places of historical interest, Kavala has something for everyone.
Things To Do
Mud Baths: A unique specialty of Kavala is the mud baths said to contain special therapeutic properties. Many have used these hot baths and swear by their soothing effects and powers of revitalization.
Monasteries: The region is renowned for the much visited monasteries. Most notable amongst these is Panagia Ikosifinisa which is thought to be the earliest monastery in Europe.
Beach life: Spreading one after the other along the coast, creating a beautiful landscape of blue, Kavala has many beaches of unparalleled beauty including Perigiali, Rapsani and Kalamitsa.
Thassos: A visit to the island of Thassos, a little jewel of an island that is still off the main tourist track is a must. As well as its sandy beaches at Pefkari, Psili Ammos and Tripiti, Thassos also has other places well worth visiting in the south of the island such as the Archangelos Monastery and the pretty fishing hamlets at Maries and Alyki.
Things To See
The Acropolis: Built by the Ottomans between 1425 and 1530 on the ruins of a byzantine castle. It consisted of the inner and the outer walls, which connected the acropolis to the peninsula’s walls fortifying the lower part of the hill on the side of the port.
Tokos Hall: The residence of tobacco farmer D. Tokos which had hosted the consulate of Italy for two years (1879-80) it features Ottoman, Neoclassical and Baroque elements.
The old Girls’ School: A neoclassical building, which today houses the 10th Primary School.
Megali Lesxi: A neoclassical mansion that now houses the Municipal Library.
The City Hall: The former residence of the Hungarian tobacco trader Pierre Herzog.
The Municipal Tobacco Warehouse: Built around 1900 it features impressive Ottoman, Neoclassical and Baroque elements.
Kavala Castle: An impressive castle and a trademark of Kavala. Rebuilt and reinforced several times by the Byzantines the current structure is mainly from the Ottoman reconstruction of 1425.
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