Occupying a peninsula that juts into the Gulf of Messinia, Koroni is a historic town in the Peloponnese. It was inhabited by the Byzantines, the Venetians and the Ottomans before becoming part of the modern Greek state in 1828. In 1966, sounding rockets were launched nearby to investigate an annular solar eclipse.
Things to do in Koroni
Boasting a commanding waterfront position is Koroni's Castle, which was originally established by the Byzantines and completed by the Venetians in the 13th century. It was taken by the Ottomans in 1500 but was captured three decades later by the Genoese admiral Andrea Doria. Explore its narrow passageways lined with centuries-old tombs and rainwater tanks, then photograph the castle’s octagonal-shaped tower.
On the southwestern edge of Koroni Castle is the Church of Panagia Eleistria, which was built following visions of the Virgin Mary here in the late 19th century. It’s surrounded by a beautiful garden filled with shade-giving trees, from where you can enjoy sweeping views across the Ionian Sea.
Stretching south of the town is Paralia Koronis, a golden sweep of sand where you can swim and sunbathe in the warmer months. Beach umbrellas and sun loungers are available for rent, together with a restaurant where you can grab drinks and snacks throughout the day. Loggerhead turtles come to nest here from mid-May, with hatchlings seen scuttling into the sea during the months of August and September.
Getting around Koroni
Koroni is around an hour’s drive from Kalamata and Kalamata International Airport, which has flights to seasonal destinations across Europe. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to Koroni and exploring the surrounding region. The centre of Koroni is small enough to explore on foot.