Situated 51 km south of Polygyros,
about 90km from Thessaloniki
and currently with some 500 inhabitants, the community was established in 1922
with the influx of refugees from Asia
Minor. Around the mid 8th century BC, a sanctuary dedicated to Dionysus and
the Nymphs was built, but it wasn’t before the 5th century BC only to be
land-filled during Roman occupation; a smaller one was built around the 1st-2nd
century AD, which is when the other structures were also erected. The sanctuary
was subsequently destroyed and a Christian Basilica was devastated and deserted,
and during the 11th century AD a monastery dependency of Aghios
Panteleimon of Mt. Athos was established in the village. It became an independent
community in 1946, which is when it also acquired its present name.
Kallithea is a pole of attraction for thousands of tourists, who came
to enjoy splendid beaches and great archaeological discoveries. Highlights include
the remains of the Doric sanctuary to Zeus Amon, the sanctuary to Dionysus and
the Nymphs, and the small chapel of Aghios Panteleimon with interesting murals.
One of the most sought-after destinations in the beautiful peninsula
of Kassandra (Chalkidiki), where pine-trees fringe a unique sandy coastline,
Kallithea is a modern commercial and cosmopolitan resort that boasts large hotel
complexes and traditional lodgings. Featuring all the necessary installations
required for thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining holidays, and blessed by its
natural and historic heritage, Kallithea satisfies even the most discerning visitor
and has a spectacular night-life to prove it.
Ideally situated, Kallithea is without a doubt the most suitable base
for day-trips throughout the entire peninsula, particularly for those wishing
to visit the area’s impressive archaeological and historic sights, experience
the lifestyle in some of its traditional and remote villages, and witness some
of the country’s leading timeless destinations.
This text is cited November 2003 from the Community
of Kallithea tourist pamphlet.
