Situated on the Bay of Kavala, facing the scenic expanse of both the beautiful Aegean Sea and Thassos Island is the city of Kavala, the second largest city in Greece. It is a place where history is much more than just something to read about. Evidence of ancient Greek civilization is very much alive in the archaeological remains of over 2,500 years of continuous societal evolution blended together with the architecture and daily life of the current city.
Kavala is a city of ancient origins, dating to the 6th century BC. It was once known as Neapolis or ‘New City,’ and was a colony of the island Thassos. Over the centuries, Kavala has seen the rule of many great leaders including Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar and the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and has been under the control of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. It is also the place where the Apostle Paul came to share the Gospel of Jesus of Nazareth in 49 A.D. during his first visit to Europe.
Scenic City of Kavala, Greece
During the late 14th through early 20th centuries the area was under the rule of the Ottoman Turks. Growth and prosperity were widespread during the Ottoman Turkish rule of the city and throughout the 1500′s many fortresses and fortifications were built or repaired including the beautiful arched Kamares aqueduct that was restored and fortified at the behest of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in 1555 and remains to this day. It is believed that the aqueduct was originally constructed during the Byzantine period and served two functions: to bring fresh spring water from a nearby spring to the city and as a defensive wall, offering a high vantage point from the walkway along the top of the structure that provides an unobstructed view of the entire area.
A city that is waiting to be explored, Kavala offers a wide variety of sights to captivate even the most well traveled visitor. For those with an interest in Macedonian history, a visit to the Kavala Museum is a must when visiting the city. On display are significant finds dating from prehistoric times through later eras that have been found throughout the region. Many artifacts as well as works of art of the many Greek gods and goddesses and many notable figures from Greek history are housed at the museum.
The nearby city of Philippi is a historical treasure trove as well. The Philippi Archaeological digs are the location of the ruins of the historic city and where the Apostle Paul was jailed with compatriot Silas. Visitors can also enjoy a performance at the ancient Philippi Theater, the same venue where the ancient Romans came to be entertained. Another noteworthy place to visit in Philippi are the ruins of the old city center where the city baths, Basilica A and B, the Forum and sections of the walls have been excavated.
While visiting Kavala be sure to visit the Saturday market! It is a shopper’s paradise and in true Greek fashion offers a wide variety of goods including fresh picked produce, clothing, crafts, jewelry and much more.
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