Kos Island (Greece, Dodecanese)

Kos island is a Greek island in the Dodecanese (*group of 15 islands in the Southeaster Aegean sea), the second largest island in the Dodecanese after Rhodes. 

The capital of the island is Kos, where it is also the main port of the island.

General Information about Kos Island

Kos island is rich in historical monuments and presents remarkable archaeological and tourist interests. It is also called the “Island of Hippocrates,” the father of medicine because Hippocrates was born there.    Today’s Kos is a modern tourist island with many possibilities in accommodation, food, sports, excursions, entertainment. The island’s most remarkable feature is the extended bicycle paths, which justifies that Kos is often referred to as the island of the bicycle.

 

Archaeological Sites & Monuments of Kos Island

Archaeological Museum

It is located in Eleftherias Square and includes a collection of prehistoric finds, Hellenistic sculptures, and classical small statues of Aphrodite, Eros, Demeter, Hippocrates, inscriptions mosaics with representations and architectural marble parts of temples and buildings.

 

 

The ruins of the ancient city along with the Hellenistic and Roman buildings near the harbor: In this area, there are parts of the Ancient Agora (4th – 3rd century BC), the Great Lodge (Kamara of the Forum), and other smaller arcades with sanctuaries dedicated to Dionysus, Aphrodite, and Hercules.

Inside the modern city is also the Ancient Stadium of Kos at the intersection of the 31st March and Alexander the Great streets. The stadium is situated in front of the chapel of Agia Anna (SW of the northern Therma ruins) and belongs to the first half of the 2nd century BC.  Similarly, at the harbor of Kos is the Castle of Nerantzia, and it is the most important and best-preserved castle on the island.

 

 

 

Knights’ Castle

The Knights’ Castle of  Kos was built on the right side of the harbor, and its most impressive monument is the Knights Temple.  The castle is kept in excellent condition and is a classic example of imposing defense of its time.  In addition, it has a double wall and trench, built in the 15th century but completed in the 16th century.

 

Gastronomy in Kos Island

 

     

 

Do not forget to taste the delicious traditional dishes.