The city of Kalamata is located in a strategic site, at the end of the mountain routes of Taygetus on the border with Laconia and with access to the sea and the Messenian gulf. The first mention of the modern name is found in the 10th century life of St. Nikon the Metanoeite. It is identified with ancient Pharai or Pherai, referred to in the homeric epics as the seat of rulers. Due to its position it was under Sparta’s control, but it became autonomous after the foundation of Messene in 369 BC. Traces of habitation dating from the mycenaean to the roman period have been found in the modern city, especially in the area around the medieval castle. The city limits during that period are not known yet; they probably extended beyond the walls, considering that three important churches of the 12th century were built outside the castle.