Kalamata, capital of Messinia, located on the Messinian Gulf, is known for its majestic olive groves and the famous Kalamata olive oil. The region offers spectacular beaches, including Voidokilia, a natural bay with turquoise waters. The area is rich in history, with ancient sites such as Messene and the Byzantine Kastro in Pylos. Kalamata is also known for its culinary delights such as the eponymous fig mustard and traditional dishes such as pasteli.

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Greek tortoises, also known as spur-thighed tortoises or Testudo graeca, are small to medium-sized reptiles native to the Mediterranean region. They are characterised by their domed shells and distinctive spurs on their thighs. These tortoises are herbivores, primarily feeding on various plants and vegetation.
Greek tortoises are renowned for their longevity, often living for several decades in captivity with proper care. They are popular pets due to their manageable size and relatively low maintenance requirements. However, they require specific environmental conditions to thrive, including a warm and dry habitat with access to sunlight for basking.
In the wild, Greek tortoises inhabit a range of habitats, including grasslands, scrublands, and rocky hillsides. They are considered a vulnerable species due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and illegal pet trade. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their natural habitats and populations.

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