Greek City Times | December 24, 2025
In a historic achievement for Greek street art, a breathtaking mural depicting opera legend Maria Callas on Aristomenous Street in Kalamata has been crowned "Best of November 2025" by the prestigious international platform Street Art Cities—marking the first time a Greek creation has earned this honor.
Created by acclaimed visual artist Kleomenis Kostopoulos (known as Kle), the massive artwork spans the façade of a multi-storey building in the heart of the Peloponnese city, instantly elevating it to a new cultural landmark. The mural's success doesn't stop there: it has been selected to compete in the "Best of 2025 Awards" this January, putting Greece firmly on the global street art map.
The piece captures the essence of Maria Callas—the iconic Greek-American soprano whose father was from the Messinia region—with exquisite detail, harmonious colors, and a lyrical quality that makes her gaze feel alive, as if engaging directly with passersby.
Surrounding Callas are symbolic branches, fruits, and birds representing the vibrant nature of Messinia, themes of renewal, continuity, and the profound connection between people and their homeland. Informally titled "Kalamata," the mural transforms the urban environment into a poetic tribute to heritage, identity, and imagination.
Kleomenis Kostopoulos, artistic director of the Patras International Street Art Festival (ArtWalk) and founder of Art in Progress, is renowned for using public art to foster dialogue and cultural pride. "This work brings poetry, color, and imagination to the city's core," he has said, emphasizing how street art can reconnect communities with their roots.
Located in central Kalamata, the mural invites locals and visitors alike to pause, look up, and reflect—a powerful reminder of Maria Callas's enduring legacy and the transformative potential of contemporary Greek art.
This international recognition highlights the growing influence of Greek street artists on the world stage, bridging local heritage with global audiences. As the mural advances to the annual awards, it stands as a beacon of pride for Kalamata and Greece. 🇬🇷🎨
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