Sperchogia is situated at a distance of 7-8 kilometres from Kalamata. During the Ottoman rule, it was called Kourtsaousi, possibly named after a Turkish commander who was crippled. Perhaps, the name also derives from the Turkish words “kourt” and “tsaou”, meaning “wolf” and “sergeant”. Its current name Sperchogia is believed to have originated from the ancient Greek verb “spercho”, (“σπέρχω”), meaning “to rule - oversee”. Indeed, the village was a powerful headquarters under Turkish rule due to its geographical position.
A local legend says that underneath Sperchogia, there is a tunnel that ends at the Church of Ypapanti in Kalamata. According to testimonials, there are stalactites whose shapes look like an epitaph.
In the area, the visitor may visit the church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary that dates back to the 16th - 17th century and features three prominent three-isle arches.
Every July, in Sperchogia, the Rice Festival is organised by the Sperchogia Women’s Association. During the festival, visitors taste local sweet and savoury delicacies made primarily of rice and virgin olive oil, such as rice millefeuille, dolmades, stuffed tomatoes and peppers, rice pies, rice pudding, etc. If you happen to be there, do not miss this unique event.
