Kalloni - The Crossroad of Lesvos

1. General Information
2. Kalloni Attractions
3. Kalloni Events
4. Nearby Attractions:
       4.1   The Bay of Kalloni
       4.2   Skala Kallonis
       4.3   The Monastery of Limonos
       4.4   The Monastery of ‘Panagia I Myrsiniotissa’
       4.5   The Rhododendra of Parakila

General Information

The municipality of Kalloni encompasses the small town of the same name and also the settlements of Agra, Anemotia, Arisvi, Dafia, Keramia, Parakila, Skalochori and Filia. It has 8.194 residents and covers a total area of almost 24.195 acres.

Ever since antiquity, Kalloni has acted as a major crossroads connecting different parts of the island. Its significant commercial development is attributed to the plentitude of its natural setting, the water of its bay, and finally to its green 100-square-kilometer valley that is traversed by six rivers and therefore endowed with immense natural beauty.

Located in the heart of the island of Lesvos, Kalloni is a small, modern town ideal for a leisurely shopping trip before heading off to the seaside area of Skala Kalloni and the several places of interest in the wider vicinity. A healthy market area, numerous fashion stores, a street lined with cafes and a large Health Centre are present in the area, which is popular with locals out on a shopping trip. If you are keen to update your fashion, purchase a variety of local products or just crave a slice of cheddar to remind you of home (it can be found in one of the local grocery stores), Kalloni is definitely worth a stop.

Kalloni Attractions

There are two beautiful religious sites in Kalloni. The church of Zoodochos Pigi (‘Life-giving Spring’) was erected at the highest point in the town and its structure includes parts of numerous earlier temples. The handsome carved-wood iconostasis, old crystal chandeliers and beautiful religious icons are worth coming to see. The church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) is the main church of Kalloni. The large basilica dates from 1937, when the church was rebuilt following a devastating earthquake that destroyed the original Saint John’s temple. It is an impressive structure with an imposing gateway, a marble iconostasis and attractive mosaic floors.

Kalloni Events

A variety of cultural events such as theatrical performances, traditional dance nights and presentations take place in Kalloni on an annual basis.

Nearby Attractions:

The Bay of Kalloni

The bay of Kalloni is home to 134 different bird species and attracts birdwatchers and nature lovers year-round. A famous travel destination since Aristotelian time, it is very popular with visitors interested in the observation of birds, which inhabit the bay in their hundreds. If you find yourself here in the early winter, it is worth observing the flamingos in the salt marshes of Kalloni as well as the variety of bird species that gather here in the fall and spring months.

Skala Kallonis

Kalloni has been unified with the settlements of Arisvi, Argiana, Kerami, Papiana and Skala Kalloni, where you can find a multitude of hotels and modern tourist facilities.
At a distance of 4 kilometers away from the town you can find Skala Kalloni, a seaside resort known for its relaxed atmosphere, long stretch of beach and the swallow waters of its sea. There are many tavernas here which are frequented by both visitors and permanent Lesvos residents and also a wealth of accommodation options, no matter whether you choose to stay at the more lively side of the harbor or its totally quiet end.

The Monastery of Limonos

The most significant religious monument in the wider area is the Limonos Monastery (‘Moni Limonos’ on road signs). Situated on the route from Kalloni towards Sigri, the Monastery was established in 1526. The beautiful Monastery grounds encompass a variety of small and larger churches and a huge collection of age-old religious tomes, rare manuscripts, a small zoo and a museum filled with old vestments, ecclesiastical items, embroidery and religious icons. A collection of minerals and a separate collection of folklore items can also be observed on the premises.

The Monastery of ‘Panagia I Myrsiniotissa’

The Monastery of ‘Panagia I Myrsiniotissa’ is located at a short distance away from Limonos. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Monastery was established in 1487. Visit here and enjoy a stroll in the well-tended grounds full of flowering plants and admire the Monastery’s collection of priceless religious treasures.

The Rhododendra of Parakila

The village of Parakila (or ‘Parakoila’, as it is sometimes spelled on road signs) is home to a variety of rhododendron only to be found in the area in the entirety of Europe. If you’re keen to purchase a handmade ‘flokati’ rug or a woven carpet, the village won’t disappoint – Parakila is famed for its carpet industry. A number of tavernas can be found in the village and also in Apothika, with its many fish tavernas and reputation as an ideal place in which to enjoy the freshest of fish.