Kalamata commemorates 40 years since the 1986 earthquake

The city of Kalamata is holding a series of commemorative events and scientific symposiums to mark the 40th anniversary of the devastating earthquake that struck on September 13, 1986. The anniversary serves as both a moment of remembrance for the victims and an opportunity to focus on modern seismic protection and disaster preparedness.

Commemorative actions include a memorial service at the Holy Temple of Agios Nikolaos Flarios, a moment of silence in the central square, and a symbolic tree-planting ceremony at the site of a collapsed apartment building on Aristidou Street. The Municipality of Kalamata is collaborating with academic institutions and research organizations to host scientific conferences, such as the “31 seconds that shook the city” symposium, to discuss tectonic data and tsunami risks.

In addition to official ceremonies, the weekend features civil protection demonstrations and first aid training for families. Political groups, including the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), are also organizing events to discuss the current state of earthquake resistance in public infrastructure and schools, questioning the adequacy of ongoing prevention measures.