Explora la cultura de Cos: Tradición viva
Sumérgete en la rica historia y cultura de Cos a través de sus museos y monumentos.
Kos is an island in the Dodecanese archipelago that perfectly combines ancient history with the energy of a modern holiday destination. Known worldwide as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, the island is dotted with impressive Greek and Roman ruins, medieval knights' castles and Ottoman mosques. Beyond its rich past, Kos offers miles of sandy beaches, fertile plains ideal for cycling and lively nightlife. It is a multi-faceted island, attracting families looking for all-inclusive resorts, history explorers and fun-seeking young people alike.
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Culture & Heritage
Discover the rich history, art and traditions of Cos
Culture focused on its immense legacy as a center of ancient medicine.
Best of local culture
Museums & Galleries
Asclepeion of Kos
The most important archaeological site on the island. An ancient healing sanctuary dedicated to the god Asclepius and the medical school where Hippocrates is believed to have taught.
Neratzia Castle
An impressive fortress built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century, which dominates the entrance to the port of Kos Town.
Hippocrates Tree
A huge old plane tree in the center of Kos Town, under which legend says Hippocrates taught his students.
Kos Town Ruins
Kos Town is built on and around extensive Greek and Roman ruins, including an ancient agora, an odeon and several mosaic villas.
Festivals & Events
Summer Festival
Annual cultural celebration with music, art and local cuisine.
Local Panigiri
Traditional Greek party with music, dance and typical food.
History
Origins
The history of Kos is intrinsically linked to its most famous son, Hippocrates (c. 460 BC). The island was home to one of the most important Asclepeion in the ancient world, a healing center and medical school that attracted patients from all over the Mediterranean. Its strategic location also made it an important commercial and naval center.
Development
After the Greek and Roman periods, Kos became part of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. In the 14th century, the Knights of Saint John of Rhodes conquered the island, building the imposing castle that still dominates the port of Kos Town. Ottoman influence is also visible in the mosques that dot the capital. In the 20th century, the island was under Italian rule, which left a mark on the architecture of some public buildings.
Modern era
A devastating earthquake in 1933 destroyed much of Kos Town, but also uncovered extensive Greek and Roman ruins that are now part of the fabric of the city. Mass tourism began to develop in the 1980s, transforming the island into one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Dodecanese, especially for European markets.
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Culture
Culture focused on its immense legacy as a center of ancient medicine.
Heritage
Of global importance as the birthplace of Hippocrates and center of Western medicine.
Architecture
A fascinating mix of ancient ruins, a medieval castle and Italian architecture in the capital.
Want to know more about Cos?
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Find Limnionas beach
On the Kefalos peninsula, it is a small, sheltered double bay with an excellent fish taverna, away from the crowds.
Visit the fortress of Antimachia
In addition to Kos Town Castle, explore this other Knights Castle, in the interior of the island, which is larger, less crowded and offers great views.
tap water
Although it is considered safe, most tourists and locals drink bottled water for the taste.
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