Kavala cruise presentation final

Kavala, Greece!North Aegean’s best kept secret, Xnally revealed

Please read this first!

TThhiiss eelleeccttrroonniicc pprreesseennttaattiioonn iiss iinntteerraaccttiivvee.. YYoouu ccaann nnaavviiggaattee iitteeiitthheerr bbyy bbrroowwssiinngg sseeqquueennttiiaallllyy tthhrroouugghh tthhee ppaaggeess oorr bbyyggooiinngg ddiirreeccttllyy ttoo tthhee sseeccttiioonn yyoouu wwaanntt bbyy cclliicckkiinngg oonn tthhee aacc--ttiivvee bbuuttttoonnss iinn tthhee lliisstt ooff ccoonntteennttss aanndd aatt tthhee bboottttoomm lleefftt hhaannddssiiddee ooff eeaacchh ccuurrrreenntt ppaaggee..

XXnndd iitt iinnffoorrmmaattiivvee.. AAnndd tthhaatt tthhiiss XXrrsstt ‘‘ttaassttee’’ ooff oouurr ttoowwnn wwiitthh aalllliitt ooffffeerrss wwiillll eennccoouurraaggee yyoouu ttoo vviissiitt uuss.. LLooookkiinngg ffoorrwwaarrdd ttoo sseeee--iinngg yyoouu ssoooonn!!

BByy cclliicckkiinngg oonn tthhee aaccttiivvee bbuuttttoonnss oonn tthhee mmaappss oonn ppaaggeess 2255aanndd 4455 yyoouu ccaann ggoo ddiirreeccttllyy ttoo tthhee ddeessccrriippttiioonn ooff tthhaatt ppllaaccee ooffiinntteerreesstt..

WWee hhooppee tthhaatt yyoouu wwiillll lliikkee tthhiiss vviirrttuuaall ‘‘aappppeettiizzeerr’’ ooff KKaavvaallaa aanndd

Welcome to Kavala !A city ideal for cruises and open for business!

Click here to return to contents page! p.4

Contents!

Kavala, a great destination for tourists that’s not “touristy”! p. 05

Kavala, a historic town 27 centuries old! p. 09

Kavala, where Apostle Paul took his first steps p. 14

on European soil!

A port with a “cruise vision”! p. 18

One destination, so many places to visit! p. 23

Kavala city map p. 25

Relaxation / Entertainment p. 41

Shopping p. 42

Places of interest map p. 45

Local flavours with distinct character! p. 59

General information p. 63

• Geography / Morphology p. 64

• Climate p. 65

• Other facilities p. 66

• Important links p. 67

• Contact information p. 68

Click on any chapter below, to move to page!

Kavala, a great destination for touriststhat’s not “touristy“!

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Kavala, a great destination for tourists that’s not “touristy“!

Ask any Greek about Kavala and you’ll get the samereply: “one of our prettiest towns!”

One thing is certain, Kavala leaves no visitor indiffer-ent. Whether you are stopping over or just passingthrough, this hospitable and handsome Greek town

Kavala’s growth can be attributed to its convenient lo-cation as a centre for the local tobacco industry andregional commerce. The sea, with its clean and teem-ing waters, has also contributed greatly to to thetown’s prosperity: Kavala is host to one of Greece’sbest fresh Xsh markets.

creates a winning impression, capturing hearts andminds. Some may even venture a comparison; “like alittle Monte Carlo”, a reference to Kavala town’s am-phitheatrically-shaped development by the sea.

Almost every visitor promises to return!

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In the past, therefore, tourism did not represent asigniXcant source of income.The result is that,today, Kavala as a tourist destination is a well-keptsecret, even for many Greeks!

Kavala reveals its many alluring faces - natural beauty,

in the town, in the markets, in the local cafes andtavernas.

NNoott jjuusstt aa ““ttoouurriissttyy”” ffaaccssiimmiillee bbuutt aann aauutthheennttiicc eexx--ppeerriieennccee ooff eevveerryyddaayy lliiffee iinn aa GGrreeeekk ccoommmmuunniittyy..

aromas, Yavours - only to those who go in search ofthem. And like most self-conXdent beauties,Kavala is discreet and low-proXle.

However, visitors who do choose Kavala are in for areward. They experience a real slice of Greek living:

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The port, for starters, which was for centuries amain source of income: although not originallybuilt with cruise ships in mind, offers them idealaccommodation.

Comfortable and hospitable, just like the town

Charming and genuine in an easy, unforced way!itself. Wherever you go: in the Old Town, wheretime slows and the past revives, or in the streetsand sidewalks of the modern town where timeflows at a contemporary pace, Kavala is alwaystrue to itself.

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Kavala, a historic town 27 centuries old!


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Kavala, contemporary and vibrant, with a fascinat-ing past 27 centuries old!

TTrraacceess ooff tthhiiss ppaasstt aarree eevveerryywwhheerree eevviiddeenntt,, hhaarrmmoo--nniioouussllyy iinntteeggrraatteedd wwiitthh tthhee mmooddeerrnn ttoowwnn aanndd iittsswwaayy ooff lliiffee..

Alexander the Great’s father, King Philip II of Mace-don, singles out Neapolis and designates it as theseaport for the neighbouring ancient town ofPhilippi, which was named after him.

In early records, the town Xrst appears with thename Neapolis (7th century BC), then as a signiX-cant independent city and later as a member ofthe Delian League.

Three centuries later, under Macedonian rule,

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During the Roman period, Neapolis was a bustlingport and busy station on the ancient Egnatia Road.

And it was at Philippi that the famous battle, be-tween the Roman forces of Mark Antony and Octa-vian and those of Cassius and Brutus, decided the

toupolis (“city of Christ”) in the 7th century AD.

During the Byzantine period, the town’s Fortressplays a major role in defence of the Empire.

fate of the Roman empire (Battle of Philippi 42BC).

At Neapolis, Paul the Apostle Xrst stepped onto Eu-ropean soil (49AD) and walked to Philippi, wherehe established the Xrst Christian church in Europe.Because of this, the town was renamed Chris-

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The Ottomans conquer and raze the city in 1391AD. It is not until the 16th century that the city isreconXgured under its current name of Kavala.

Suleiman the MagniXcent embarks on a major pro-gramme of public works in 1530AD, culminating in

Kavala’s population swells, causing the city to ex-pand beyond its walls in 1864. Growth continuesuntil the early 20th century due to tobacco com-merce.

the “Kamares” an imposing aqueduct of 60 arches.

In the 18th century, the port of Kavala attains newheights as a centre of European commerce.

Attracted by its increasing economic prosperity,

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Five centuries of Ottoman domination end withthe Balkan Wars. The city is liberated in 1913.

As a consequence of the Asia Minor Catastrophe(1922), the city embraces 30.000 Greek refugees,who bring with them new skills, dynamically con-

It wants you to feel at home, just like theKavaliots feel at home; comfortable enough tovisit again and again!

tributing to the city’s further development. Today,Kavala is a town with a sense of heritage, openand friendly, ready and willing to show the visitorits attractions, both visible and hidden.

Kavala is determined to impress, captivate and charm.

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Kavala, where Apostle Paul tookhis first steps on European soil!


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Kavala, where Apostle Paul took his first steps on European soil!

It was at Kavala (then Neapolis), already a majorport and commercial centre, that Apostle Paul dis-embarked in 49 AD, stepping for the Xrst time ontothe European continent. Following a vision, his in-tent was to preach the Word of Christ to the Mace-donians.

“Jordan”, Apostle Paul meets, proselytises and bap-tizes the Xrst European Christian, Lydia.

HHeerree,, hhee eessttaabblliisshheess tthhee XXrrsstt EEuurrooppeeaann CChhrriissttiiaanncchhuurrcchh..

Accompanied by Luke the Evangelist, Apostle Tim-othy and Saint Silas, they take the ancient EgnatiaRoad and walk to Philippi, a signiXcant Roman set-tlement at the time.

There on the banks of the Zygakti river, Europe’s

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Consequently, Neapolis is renamed Christoupoulisand bears the name for 600 years before taking itsmodern name, Kavala.

During his Xrst visit to Philippi, Apostle Paul wasviliXed, beaten and imprisoned because of a mira-

preachings and in his “Letter to the Philippians”.

Today, all the places Apostle Paul went are pre-served and can be seen.

cle he performed. Nevertheless, he developedsuch a bond with Philippi that he returned Xvetimes.

His unwavering love for its people and his regardfor the church he founded there is plain in his

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The spot where he Xrst landed, along the EgnatiaRoad where he walked;

The exact place at the Zygakti river where Lydiawas baptised, and which still functions today as abaptistry;

The Roman agora at Philippi and the place whereit is believed he was imprisoned.

Visitors can retrace his footsteps in a uniquejourney!

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A port with a clear “cruise vision”!


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The old commercial port of Kavala is located in thecity, at the foot of the Old Town.

Since ancient times and throughout its history, thetown has evolved around the harbour, on which itseconomic and social prosperity depended.

KKaavvaallaa PPoorrtt,, wwiitthh iittss nneeww--bbuuiilltt PPaasssseennggeerr TTeerrmmiinnaall,,ccuussttoommss hhoouussee aanndd nneecceessssaarryy bbeerrtthhiinngg iinnffrraassttrruucc--ttuurree,, aass wweellll aass iittss pprrooxxiimmiittyy ttoo tthhee cciittyy,, mmaakkee iittiiddeeaall ffoorr aa ccrruuiissee ccaallll..

The port has an attractive personality, with pictur-esque Xshing caiques and yachts and a broad andlively waterfront, perfect for a leisurely prome-nade.

Planned investments include a marina development.

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The Port Location is: Latitude 40º55'N / Longitude 24º25'E. It is a natural port with depth up to 14m and today it has three berths:

• Berth one, inside the breakwater - 380m long and 10-12m depth,• Berth two, inside the breakwater - 160m and 10m depth,• Berth three, inside the breakwater, next to the Passenger Terminal - 220m and 8.5m depth.

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FFeeaattuurreess• New Passenger Terminal.• Convenient parking for tourist coaches.• Walking distance to the city center.

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OOnnggooiinngg PP rroojjeeccttss• Additional work is currently being carried out to extend the break water pier to 610 m,

allowing for larger ships to berth within the city.• Upgrading of the existing passenger security and safety procedures.

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One destination, so many places to visit!


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Places of interest!

1. Κavala Old Town

1a. Imaret

1b. Muhammad Ali mansion

1c. Church of the Panagia / Pharos

1d. Khalil Bey complex

1e. The Fortress

1f. Kamares (aqueduct)

2. Modern Kavala

2a. Kyprou Street

2b. Tobacco warehouses

2c. Apostle Paul monument / Churches

11. Thassos island

12. Alistrati Cave

13. Maara Cave

14. Palia Kavala Nature Trail

15. Wine tourism

16. Xanthi Old Town / Abdera

Archeological Museum

17. Nestos River Delta and Straits

18. Panagia EikosiXnissa Monastery

3. Tobacco Museum

4. Kavala Archeological Museum

5. Relaxation / Entertainment

6. Shopping

7. Beaches

8. The ancient Egnatia Road

9. Philippi

9a. Archeological site / Theatre /

Philippi Archeological Museum

9b. Apostle Paul / Lydia’s baptistry

10. Mud Spa


Click on any place of interest below, for more information!


Kavala city map!

Click on any dot on the map, for more information!

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1. Κavala Old Town!

A stroll through the narrow streets of the vibrantOld Town (Palia Poli) or Panagia, its modern name,is a journey through time.

The visitor is beguiled by alternating sights of pic-turesque buildings and Yagstones, graphic cafes

mad Ali mansion, Church of the Panagia andPharos, Khalil Bey complex, The Fortress,and Ka-mares (aqueduct).

and taverns, parts of the ancient walls, and at vari-ous locations one stumbles across a sudden open-ing onto breathtaking views of the old shipyard orsmall bays with crystalline waters.

SigniXcant monuments include: Imaret, Muham-

Click here to return to contents! Click here to return to city map! Click here to return places of inerest list!

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1a. Imaret!

A perfectly preserved masterpiece of Islamic ar-chitecture from the late Ottoman period.

Built by Muhammad Ali in 1817-1821 AD as amadrassah, the 4500 sq.metres complex com-

ary for thousands of Greek refugees, before itbecame a luxury hotel.

prised many student cells, teaching rooms,kitchens, store-rooms, secret inner courtyardsand, of course, a mosque.

Later, it functioned as a poorhouse and sanctu-


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1b. Muhammad Ali mansion!

The founder of modern Egypt, Muhammad Ali(locally known as Mehmet Ali) was born inKavala.

A bronze figure stands in front of his mansion,

Old Town’s most imposing buildings. which is situated to the left of the square thatbears his name.

Built in 1720, the two-storey residence with itspanoramic view and large garden is one of the


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1c. Church of the Panagia / Pharos!

One of Kavala’s prettiest churches, the Panagiawas built on the site of an old nunnery, of whichonly the belfry remains.

Demotic (elementary) school and the Pharos(lighthouse), this is one of the city’s best-lovedcorners.

The Church contains an icon of the Madonna,with reputed miraculous powers. Situated onthe promontory of the Old Town, alongside the


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1d. Khalil Bey complex!

The complex comprises an early 20th centurymosque, a 16th century minaret and a madras-

be viewed through a glass floor.sah. The mosque was built on the foundationsof an early Christian basilica, whose remains can


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1e. The Fortress!

As Kavala’s foremost landmark, the Fortresstowers over the Old Town. Originally built fromlocal rough-hewn granite in the 15th century on

The inner section encompasses the centraltower, guards’ quarters, water cistern, weaponsarsenal and food-store.

the ruins of a Byzantine Acropolis, it was subse-quently added to by Venetian and Turkish occu-piers.


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1f. Kamares (aqueduct)!

This majestic aqueduct (1530 AD) supplied theFortress with water and is perhaps the city’sbest-known landmark.

the aqueduct is 280 metres long, with 60arches.

One of Suleiman the Magnificent’s public works,thought to have been built over the traces of awall constructed by Emperor Palaiolologos II,


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1. Kavala Old Town (conclusion)!

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt KKaavvaallaa OOlldd TToowwnn::ppiiccttuurreessqquuee ssiigghhttss,, vviibbrraanntt llooccaall ccoolloouurr,, eevveerryy sstteepp rreevveeaallss aa nneeww ssuurrpprriissee:: mmoonnuummeennttss,,hhoouusseess,, ccoouurrttyyaarrddss aanndd bbrreeaatthhttaakkiinngg vviieewwss..


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2. Modern Kavala!

Modern Kavala was born inside the old city walls, laterspilling outside and into the surrounding hills in anamphitheatrically-shaped semi-circle facing the sea.

Distinguished by its attractive personality and hos-pitable locals, visitors are invited to saunter around

take you past traditional Xshing caiques, sailing yachtsand motor cruisers.

Feel free to ‘lose’ yourself in the town’s energy andmingle with the locals. You will be made to feel like aguest, not a “tourist”!

the sights; sit at a sidewalk café and people-watch; savour local dishes at one of the many tavernas andrestaurants; admire the handsome neoclassical build-ings, among them the old tobacco warehouses; shopfor souvenirs and sample local products. A prome-nade in the port in the shadow of the Old Town will


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2a. Kyprou Street!

One of the town’s prettiest streets, with rows ofhandsome neoclassical buildings. It starts fromKapnergati Square (meaning “tobacco worker”)and progresses parallel to the sea.

Rest and refreshments can be enjoyed in the cafesalong Kyprou Street and the square in the “Di-motikos Kipos” (public park).

Noteworthy buildings: the “Demotic Kapnapothiki”(tobacco warehouse), the Lazaristes Monastery,the Wix mansion, the town hall, the “Megali Leschi”(great clubhouse), the Tokou mansion and others.


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2b. Tobacco warehouses!

These imposing buildings are symbols of the town’sindustrial past, during its heyday as a regional to-bacco processing and trading hub. Built at different

tors. Others are ‘resting’, nestled in various corners ofthe town, waiting for the visitor to discover them.

stages, each has its own individual character, and to-gether they add personality to the town.Some havebeen carefully renovated and are pulsating with visi-


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2c. Apostle Paul monument / Churches!

Kavala’s association with the history of Christianityis as old as Europe’s: it was from here in 49AD thatthe Apostle Paul Xrst chose to begin spreading theWord of God to the European continent.

For instance: Apostle Paul’s cathedral, St. Johns’chapel, the Xrst church to be built outside the citywalls (1867 AD) and the church of ProXtis Ilias, carvedout of the rocks, looking down on the town.

The spot where he landed is commemorated by aluminous mosaic next to St. Nicholas’ church. Scat-tered throughout the town are other signiXcantexamples of Byzantine architecture.


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2. Modern Kavala (conclusion)!

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt MMooddeerrnn KKaavvaallaa::AA ttoowwnn wwiitthh aann iinntteerreessttiinngg ppaasstt,, ccoonntteemmppoorraarryy aanndd hhoossppiittaabbllee,, oonn aa ccoommffoorrttaabbllee ssccaallee,,wwiitthh lloottss ttoo sseeee aanndd eevveenn mmoorree ttoo ddoo!!


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3.Tobacco Museum!

A modern industrial and experiential museum. Thevisitor is taken back in time 100 years, when Kavalawas Greece’s most dynamic centre for tobacco pro-cessing and exports.

Its ample collection includes tobacco industry items,

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::TThhee oonnllyy mmuusseeuumm iinn EEuurrooppee ddeeddiiccaatteedd ttoo ttoobbaaccccoo aannddaann iimmppoorrttaanntt ppiieeccee ooff llooccaall ccuullttuurree,, cclloosseellyy iinntteerrwwoovveennwwiitthh tthhee ttoowwnn’’ss XXnnaanncciiaall aanndd ssoocciiaall hhiissttoorryy..

machinery, furniture, photographs, documents andpublications, information and interesting facts abouttobacco cultivation and commercial processing.


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4.Kavala Archeological Museum!

The Museum’s ample displays present the city’sand region’s life and culture through the ages,from the Neolithic to the Byzantine eras.

The abundant collection includes many artefactsfrom prehistoric settlements in ancient Neapolis,

Amphipolis and Thrace, as well as the necropoli ofOisymi, Galypso and Abdera.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::CCoommpprreehheennssiivvee iinnttrroodduuccttiioonn ttoo tthhee mmaannyy cceennttuurriieess oofftthhee rreeggiioonn’’ss ccuullttuurree aanndd hhiissttoorryy aanndd oonnee ooff GGrreeeeccee’’ssmmaajjoorr mmuusseeuummss..


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5.Relaxation / Entertainment!

Relaxing in Kavala involves tantalising aromas and deli-cious tastes. If you’re looking for laid-back entertainmentGreek-style (whose popularity is entirely justiXed), you willXnd it pretty much everywhere: in the picturesque quar-ter of St. Nicolas, the town’s old agora, with its numerouscafes, bars and eating places; in the centre, with its chic all-

year-round sidewalk cafes; in the romantic Xsh restau-rants next to the waves in the little harbour of the oldslaughterhouse; in the delightful ouzeries against theunique backdrop of the Old Town; in the restaurants,lined up and waiting for you as you step out of the portand in the beach cafes, alongside the yachts.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::MMoorrnniinngg ttoo nniigghhtt eenntteerrttaaiinnmmeenntt ffoorr aallll ttaasstteess,, wwhheerreetthhee vviissiittoorr ccaann rreellaaxx ssiiddee bbyy ssiiddee wwiitthh tthhee llooccaallss iinn aannaauutthheennttiicc eennvviirroonnmmeenntt,, nnoott gglliitttteerryy oorr ““ttoouurriissttyy””..


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6.Shopping!

On offer in Kavala’s bustling shopping centre iseverything you expect to Xnd in a typical Euro-pean town of the same size.

Well-known international brands jostle side byside with jewellery stores, local commercial retail-

ers and grocery stores with genuine local produce:shoes, clothes, souvenirs, international press,food…and service with a smile!

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::WWiinnddooww--sshhooppppiinngg,, ggiifftt ppuurrcchhaasseess aanndd bbaarrggaaiinnss wwaaiitt--iinngg ttoo bbee ddiissccoovveerreedd,, iinn aa ccoolloouurrffuull mmooddeerrnn aaggoorraa,,wwhhiicchh iiss nnoott aatt aallll ““ttoouurriissttyy””..


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7.Beaches!

Kavala boasts many beautiful, clean beaches, someactually in town.

They are also to be found east and west of thetown, stretching out for kilometers in both direc-tions, most with a “blue Yag” designation.

Each has its own particular attractions: Rapsani,Kalamitsa, Batis, Toska, Palio, Nea Heraklitsa, NeaPeramos and the exotic AmmoloX.

Wide sands, green waters, good food, entertain-ment, casual relaxation: this is Kavala in summer!

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::AA ggrreeaatt eexxppeerriieennccee ffoorr sswwiimmmmiinngg aanndd rreellaaxxaattiioonn aattlloovveellyy ssaannddyy bbeeaacchheess wwiitthh ccrryyssttaalllliinnee wwaatteerrss..


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8.The ancient Egnatia Road!

On the edge of town, you can visit a well-pre-served section of the Roman Egnatia Road, whichran from Durres in Albania to Constantinople,passing through Kavala.

This is the road Apostle Paul took when walking to

Philippi, where he baptized Lydia, the Xrst Euro-pean Christian and established the Xrst Christianchurch in Europe.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::AA nnaattuurree wwaallkk oonn tthhee AAnncciieenntt EEggnnaattiiaa RRooaadd,, ffoolllloowwiinnggiinn tthhee ffoooottsstteeppss ooff PPaauull tthhee AAppoossttllee..



Places of interest map!

Click on any dot on the map, for more information!

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9. Philippi!

Evidence of human settlement in the area datesback to the Neolithic period. Philippi is namedafter King Philip II of Macedonia, father ofAlexander the Great

Apostle Paul of the first European Christianplace of worship (49AD).

It was a significant presence in Eastern Mace-donia due to its prominent location, fertile landand goldmines. Of historical interest are: theBattle of Philippi (42BC) and the founding by

Click here to return to contents! Click here to return to places map! Click here to return places of inerest list!

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9a. Philippi: Archeological site / Theatre / Philippi Archeological Museum !

A tour of the Archeological site brings the visitorinto contact with three different ancient worlds:the ancient Greek world of Philip II of Macedon,the Roman world of the Battle of Philippi and thatof the Byzantine empire. Ancient walls, an acropo-lis, the Roman agora, dwellings and Early Christian

places of worship! And of course, the Ancient The-atre, which today hosts the popular annual cultural“Philippi Festival”. The Archeological Museum shel-ters important Xndings, from the prehistoric to theearly Christianic eras.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::TThhrreeee wwoorrllddss aanndd tthhrreeee aanncciieenntt ccuullttuurreess ccoonnvveerrggee aannddccoommee ttoo lliiffee iinn tthhee wweellll--pprreesseerrvveedd rruuiinnss ooff tthhee aarrcchheeoo--llooggiiccaall ssiittee,, tthhee TThheeaattrree aanndd tthhee MMuusseeuumm..


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9b. Philippi: Apostle Paul / Lydia’s baptistry!

Paul the Apostle chose Philippi to found the XrstEuropean Christian church (49AD) and baptizedLydia, who became the Xrst European Christian, onthe banks of the Zygakti river, Europe’s “Jordan”.

Even today, Christians are baptized in the same

waters, in Lydia’s contemporary baptistry. Locatedin the Archeological site is the place where it isthought Apostle Paul was imprisoned.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::AA ppiillggrriimmaaggee ddeessttiinnaattiioonn iinn tthhee ffoooottsstteeppss ooff PPaauull tthheeAAppoossttllee aanndd ttoo tthhee bbiirrtthhppllaaccee ooff tthhee EEuurrooppeeaann CChhrriiss--ttiiaann cchhuurrcchh..


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9. Philippi (conclusion)!

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt PPhhiilliippppii::AA ppllaaccee ooff aa mmaajjoorr aarrcchheeoollooggiiccaall iimmppoorrttaannccee.. AA jjoouurrnneeyy tthhrroouugghh aaggeess,, wwhheerree yyoouu ccaann aallmmoosstt ffeeeell tthheeppaassssaaggee ooff mmaannyy ddiiffffeerreenntt ccuullttuurreess aanndd tthhee pprreesseennccee ooff ppeerrssoonnaalliittiieess lliikkee KKiinngg PPhhiilliipp IIII ooff MMaacceeddoonn,,MMaarrkk AAnnttoonnyy,, OOccttaavviiaann,, CCaassssiiuuss,, BBrruuttuuss,, AAppoossttllee PPaauull,, LLuukkee tthhee EEvvaannggeelliisstt,, AAppoossttllee TTiimmootthhyy,, SSaaiinntt SSiillaassaanndd mmaannyy ootthheerrss..


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10. Mud Spa!

Since the 19th century, the therapeutic mud spaat Krinides has been renowned.

It is unique amongst spas of this type because theparticular and complex conditions of local naturecreated spring waters and therapeutic clay, which

help to alleviate various conditions and promotewell-being.

The good reputation of the Krinides mud spa,which is situated at Philippi, is based on thousandsof users’ reports.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::AAnn eexxcceeppttiioonnaall nnaattuurraall ssppaa,, uunniiqquuee ffoorr iittss ttyyppee,, ooffffeerriinngghheeaalltthh bbeennee22ttss aanndd iinnccrreeaasseedd wweellll--bbeeiinngg..


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11. Thassos island!

Verdant, thick with olive groves, pine and planetrees. Turquoise, with clear crystalline waters and alacy-edged coastline.

Thassos combines all the features of the ideal dayexcursion: leisure, archeological and theological

interest, cultural traditions and shopping. The visi-tor is quickly won over by this cute little island’scharms and can access it all in one day, beachesand picturesque villages, due to the convenient100 kilometers ring road.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::OOnnee ooff GGrreeeeccee’’ss pprreettttiieesstt iissllaannddss,, wwiitthh lloottss ooff cchhaarraacctteerraanndd ppiinnee ttrreeeess ggrroowwiinngg rriigghhtt nneexxtt ttoo tthhee sseeaa!!


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12. Alistrati Cave!

A 2 million year old spectacular monument of na-ture, proving its superior interior design talentswith a variety of wonderful geological formationsand red and white stalactites as long as 35 meters.

The spacious cave is 3000 metres long, with a sur-face area of 25000 square metres.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::AA ttrruullllyy mmaaggnniiXXcceenntt ccaavvee.. OOnnee ooff EEuurrooppee’’ss bbeesstt!!


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13. Maara Cave !

The halls and galleries of the Maara cave are deco-rated with stalactites up to 2 meters in diameter.

Their striking colours are due to mineral ores andwater reYections from the Aggiti river which runs sub-terraneously. The Maara cave is the longest of the

Greek caves (12 kilometers long), although only onesection of 500 metres is accessible for visits.

The cave is located in Prosotsani in the Drama prefec-ture, at the Aggiti river source.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::UUnniiqquueellyy aattmmoosspphheerriicc ccaavvee,, oouuttssttaannddiinngg nnaattuurraall eennvviirroonn--mmeenntt,, wwiitthh ppllaannee ttrreeeess aanndd ffrreesshh wwaatteerr ssttrreeaammss..


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14. Palia Kavala Nature Trail !

An organized nature trail in a splendid natural en-vironment: a “small jungle”, with centuries-oldplane trees and fast-Yowing brooks of clear freshwater.

The vigorous waterfall with its dual backdrop of

caves and water mills, thrills visitors through theseasons.

Starting point from Palia Kavala village.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::RReellaaxxiinngg aanndd iinnvviiggoorraattiinngg nnaattuurree wwaallkk..


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15. Wine tourism!

Discover new wines on this fascinating wine trail.

Kavala is situated at the centre of a rich wine-growing region with many traditional vineyardsand wineries producing quality and award-win-ning wines, many from unique local cultivars un-

known outside Greece. The visitor is given aguided tour, information on how the vines are cul-tivated, the wines produced and how to recognizeparticular regional wine characteristics, with abun-dant tasting opportunities!

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::AAnn eexxccuurrssiioonn ffuullll ooff ttaassttee,, wwiitthh bboouuqquueettss ooff uunniiqquuee,,qquuaalliittyy wwiinneess..


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16. Xanthi Old Town / Abdera Archeological Museum!

A contemporary regional Greek town. Its peak pe-riod, due to the tobacco trade, was from the mid-dle of the 19th century up to the early 20thcentury. The Old Town was built by locals and new-comers of various nationalities and religious faithsand is architecturally interesting, with neoclassical

mansions, traditional dwellings and bright court-yard gardens. A stroll in the Old Town can be com-bined with a visit to the Abdera ArcheologicalMuseum, which includes a number of unusual ex-hibits bringing to life the period of ancient Abdera,the birthplace of Democritus.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::AA ssttrroollll tthhrroouugghh tthhee ssttoonnee--ppaavveedd aalllleeyyss ooff oonnee ooff tthheellaarrggeesstt aanndd bbeesstt--pprreesseerrvveedd ttrraaddiittiioonnaall GGrreeeekk sseettttlleemmeennttss..


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17. Nestos River Delta and Straits!

The Nestos river delta is one of Europe’s most importantwildlife waterlands: a wild animal and Xsh sanctuary anda crucial stopover for the world’s migrant bird popula-tions. A natural paradise, with lakes, the great forest ofKotza-Orman containing rare tree species, and beachesby the clear blue sea. It covers the area from Nea Karvali

to Abdera.The Protected Area is located in the Nestosriver straits, a valley covering 27 kilometers of land in thenorthern section of the Kavala and Xanthi prefectures.This is nature at its best, with improbably tall trees, cavesand sandy beaches. It is great for long hikes, canoeing,kayaking and rock-climbing.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::AA uunniiqquuee nnaattuurraall bbaacckkddrroopp,, iiddeeaall ffoorr hhiikkiinngg aanndd lloonnggwwaallkkss,, bbiirrdd--wwaattcchhiinngg aanndd eexxttrreemmee ssppoorrttss..


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18. Panagia Eikosifinissa Monastery!

The Holy Monastery of EikosiXnissa is one of thebest known holy sites, attracting thousands of visi-tors and pilgrims. Home to a miraculous icon ofthe Panagia (Mother of Christ), it is believed thatno human hand was involved in its making: that itwas given by the Panagia herself to St. Germanos,

who established the 5th century monastery inorder to provide it with a roof.

The monastery is located in the forest on theslopes of the Pangaio hills, on the border of theKavala-Serres prefectures.

MMaaiinn rreeaassoonn ttoo vviissiitt::AAlluummiinnoouuss mmoonnaasstteerryy wwiitthh aa cceennttuurriieess--oolldd hhiissttoorryy,, lloo--ccaatteedd iinn aa bbeeaauuttiiffuull eennvviirroonnmmeenntt,, eennccoouurraaggiinngg iinn tthheevviissiittoorr aa ffeeeelliinngg ooff ggeettttiinngg cclloosseerr ttoo ddiivviinniittyy..


Local flavours with distinct character!


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The distinct character of a destination is expressedin how it appeals to the senses. Taste is always animportant part of this appeal!

Local gastronomy, traditional recipes and interest-ing Yavours arise out of regional cultivation, local

its riches and the microclimate. These elementsharmoniously conspire to create quality localproducts, which enjoy national recognition.

culture, as well as the imagination of local chefs.

As a town with a centuries-old history created bymany different peoples, Kavala is distinguished bythe variety and quality of its gastronomic offeringsand its raw materials: the fertile earth; the sea with

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The best way to enjoy these delights is during avisit to their birthplace, alongside locals “in theknow“ about the right combination of Yavours forthe right time of day: when to eat which “meze”(appetizer), which sweet or savoury taste, accom-panied with which drinks!

delicious cooked dishes visitors enjoy in Kavala’srestaurants unfortunately cannot be packed in asuitcase, there are many excellent local productsthat can!

CChhaarraacctteerriissttiicc llooccaall YYaavvoouurrss aarree aallwwaayyss ppooppuullaarraammbbaassssaaddoorrss.. LLooccaall ffoooodd pprroodduuccttss mmaakkee ggrreeaatt ssoouu--vveenniirrss aanndd ggiiffttss ttoo ffrriieennddss aanndd lloovveedd oonneess bbaacckkhhoommee..

Although the fresh Xsh, fruit and vegetables and

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Local products include: eating olives; extra virginolive oil; pure honey; melt-in-your-mouth“kourambiedes“, (traditional shortbread cookies),made with butter and whole almonds; or walnut“spoon sweet“ preserve.

KKaavvaallaa’’ss llooccaall pprroodduuccttss aarree aann iinntteeggrraall ppaarrtt ooff iittssppaarrttiiccuullaarr cchhaarraacctteerr,, aa ggoooodd mmeemmoorryy ttoo ttaakkeehhoommee wwiitthh yyoouu aanndd oonnee mmoorree ggoooodd rreeaassoonn ttoorreesscchheedduullee aa vviissiitt!!

Particular items deserving mention are: “tsipouro“,a grappa-like brandy, and “Protected Designationof Origin” ouzo. There are also a hundred localwines so unique they are designated “ProtectedPangaio Local Wines.“

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General information!


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General information (Geography / Morphology)!

KKaavvaallaa iiss aa pprreeffeeccttuurree ooff GGrreeeeccee,, wwiitthh KKaavvaallaa ttoowwnn aassiittss ccaappiittaall.. IItt iiss bbuuiilltt aammpphhiitthheeaattrriiccaallllyy oonn tthhee ssllooppeess oofftthhee SSyymmbboolloo hhiillllss,, bbyy tthhee NNoorrtthh AAeeggeeaann sseeaa

Geographically it is located in the Northeastern sec-tion of Greece (longitude 24º 44’/latitude 40º 56’), in

there is a well-maintained regional road network.There is a regular ferry to and from nearby Thassos is-land.

The population of the Kavala municipality numbersaround 75,000.

the region known as Eastern Macedonia and Thrace. Itis 680 klm from Athens and 165 klm from Thessa-loniki. It has the second most important port in Mace-donia and one of the most important in Greece.Kavala is strategically located on the New Egnatiaroad axis, connecting Igoumenitsa with Istanbul and

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General information (Climate)!

Mild Mediterranean climate, similar to that ofBarcelona and Monaco, with 275 to 300 sunny daysthroughout the year. Summers are warm and dry,winters are mild, with low to medium rainfall.The summer period lasts from April through Septem-ber, with the hottest months June, July and August.

coolest months, January and February. Average tem-peratures range between 10 and 20°C. Rain showersare short and cloud cover does not normally lastmore than a few consecutive days. The sea also playsits role in winter, softening the cold with milder tem-peratures.

Average temperatures during the hot season rangebetween 20-30°C. The weather is stable, the sunbright and the sky normally cloudless. Cooling,pleasant breezes come in from the sea making thehottest days quite bearable. The winter period startsin October and lasts through to April, with the

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General information (Other facilities)!

AAss aa mmaajjoorr cciittyy,, KKaavvaallaa ooffffeerrss mmaannyy ffaacciilliittiieess::• Municipal authorities • Commercial port, • International airport,• General hospital,• Post Office,

• Local, regional and national bus service connections (KTEL),

• Car rental services, etc.

• Telephone and telecommunications,• Banks,• Police authorities,• Fire brigade,• Customs authorities,

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General information (Important links)!

KKaavvaallaa mmuunniicciippaall aauutthhoorriittiieess:: www.kavala.gov.gr

““DDIIMMOOFFEELLIIAA”” -- KKaavvaallaa ppuubblliicc bbeenneeXXttoorrggaanniissaattiioonn::www.kavalagreece.gr

EEaasstteerrnn MMaacceeddoonniiaa aanndd TThhrraacceerreeggiioonnaall aauutthhoorriittiieess::www.pamth.gov.gr

wwwwww..kkaavvaallaaccrruuiissee..ggrr

CChhaammbbeerr ooff KKaavvaallaa::www.kcci.gr

KKaavvaallaa ppoorrtt oorrggaanniissaattiioonn::www.portkavala.gr

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Click on any dot on any link, to open web site!

www.kavala.gov.gr

www.kavalagreece.gr

www.kcci.gr

www.portkavala.gr

www.pamth.gov.gr

www.kavalacruise.gr

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Contact us!

FFoorr ffuurrtthheerr iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn,, pplleeaassee ccoonnttaacctt::

“DIMOFELIA” – Public beneXt organization / Municipality of Kavala117, Omonias St., 65403 Kavala, GreeceΤel.: +30 2510 831388, +30 2510 831358 Fax: +30 2510831378, Ε-mail: [email protected]


Local authorities!

Click here to return to contents!Photo credit : Nikos Desillas, Theodoros Papadopoulos, Makis Pavlides, Achilleas Savopoulos, “Dimofelia” archives

See you in Kavala!


Travel

Kavala cruise presentation final