The wondrous Kos – The island of Hippocrates

Kos is located in the south eastern Aegean Sea, Greece. In size it is the third largest island in the Dodecanese and is famous for being the birthplace of the father of medicine, Hippocrates. The ancient Romans considered Kos the most temperate place in the world thanks to its warm mild climate which is very beneficial. The pleasant temperatures, the breathtaking beauty of nature and its beaches of golden sand make holidays in Kos wonderful no matter what time of the year you visit. You can remain lying in the sun or dive into the sea, particularly suitable for water sports like diving, water skiing and wind surfing, but you can also go for a hike and explore the island for its outmost beauty. The north coast is always windy, but being more rocky the seabed there has better suited spots for diving, while the southern beaches with their sea are always calm and are preferred by families and lovers due to the relaxation they offer. Among Kardamena and Kos are natural pools of hot water and sulfur, the “Thermes” where you can enjoy refreshments with a beauty bath.

Paradise Beach in Kefalos, Kos.
Paradise Beach in Kefalos, Kos.
North Coast, Mastichari, Kos.
North Coast, Mastichari, Kos.

The north coast is always windy, but being more rocky the seabed there has better suited spots for diving, while the southern beaches with their sea are always calm and are preferred by families and lovers due to the relaxation they offer. Among Kardamena and Kos are natural pools of hot water and sulfur, the “Thermes” where you can enjoy refreshments with a beauty bath.

South Coast, Kardamena, Kos.
South Coast, Kardamena, Kos.

Kos is an island rich in history and culture, rich in archaeological sites and monuments dating back to its glorious past, from ancient and Byzantine times till today. Kos is a city of great charm, arriving by sea the Castle Neratzia can be seen connected to the bridge from the lovely city of palms.

Castle of Neratsia
Castle of Neratsia

The fortress was built by the Knights and as often happens, the materials used were taken from the ruins of Greek and Roman times so you can see the early Christian columns used in the ceiling and a Hellenistic frieze above the entrance door. In the front is the Plane of Hippocrates, considered one of the oldest trees in Europe, at the foot of which the famous doctor taught his disciples.

The plane of Hippocrates
The plane of Hippocrates

The town of Kos holds other memories of the past like the Ancient Theatre, the Domus Romana, the Ancient Agora and several buildings in the Venetian style as the Governor’s Palace. A few kilometers from the town center is a symbol of the island of Kos, the remains of Asclepeion, the temple of Asclepius, greek god of medicine.

By Elsi H

Travel photo 1: lau, Travel photo 2: rioclio, Travel photo 3: varthakouris, Travel photo 4: bazylek100, Travel photo 5: Dutched Pinay

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