Kavala lies 163 km (100 mi.) east of Thessaloniki built in the south slopes of Mt. Symvolon. In the ancient times Kavala was the port of Philippi. Here was born the founder of the last Egyptian dynasty Mohamet Ali. The population of Kavalla today is 85.000.
Kavala is the second largest city of Macedonia, built amphitheatrically around the gulf and is a gut base for getting to know the surrounding region and, in particular, Philippi.The city occupies the site of ancient Neapolis which was the harbor of Plhilippi and the main port of the disembarkation for those travelling to Europe from the East. St. Paul disembarked here. In Byzantine times it was named Christoupolis. Ancient remains of the sanctuary of Parhtenos and of the ancient city wall have been revealed.
Must see: Among the city's impressive landmarks are the old walls, the Byzantine castle, and the Kamares-the aqueduct erected by Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16the century -Mahmet Ali's house (18th century) and the Imaret, a Turkish building.The castle stands on a promontory to the east, occupying the site of the ancient Acropolis. The were repaired in 926 AD after an earthquake, and again in 16th century. Interesting local finds are exhibited in the museum of the town.Many attractive villages and beaches near Kavalla are Kalamitsa, Palio, Nea Iraklitsa, Rapsani, Perigiali, Agios Sillas with its homonymous monastery, Korifes and Stavros on a hill, for those who love views.Finally, there is a spa at Loutra Eleftheron (67 km from Kavala) with installations for hydrotherapy.
Copyright 2000-2014, Destination Greece. All rights reserved. No one, for any reason, is permitted to copy the photos, graphics, text or any content or information presented on these pages without written permission from Destination Greece
