Kos Town

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Set on the northeast coast, Kos Town is the island's capital and one of the main hubs in the Dodecanese. The town is built on the site of the ancient city and has been continuously inhabited since the 3rd millennium BC. Kos Town is a vibrant reflection of the island’s rich history. History and culture encompass every corner of the city, through ancient ruins, historical monuments, public buildings, parks and squares. The Ancient Greeks, Romans, Ottomans and Italians have all left their stamp here.

The ancient city of Kos was founded in 366 BC and flourished as an important economic and commercial center during the Hellenistic and Roman times. Samples of that time are scattered in various parts of the town, mingling with others, of the Byzantine, Ottoman and Italian eras, all composing an interesting cultural puzzle. The harbor is fronted by the superb medieval castle of Neratzia, surrounded by an imposing fortress while a bit further stands the Government House. The Archaeological Museum hosts an interesting collection of Greek and Roman remains including a marble statue of Hippocrates, that has been dated back to the 4th century BC. Hippocrates, was born on Kos, and a plane tree which he is said to have planted and to have taught under stands in Plateia Platanou (Platanos Square). The town’s historic center also includes The Roman Agora with the Temple of Heracles and Casa Romana with its wonderful mosaics.

After the devastating earthquake of 1933 that destroyed most of the town, a new urban plan was drawn up by the Italians. The new plan included large squares, sidewalks and wide tree-lined streets, flanked by imposing buildings. Today, Kos Town is considered one of the greenest in the Dodecanese with all kinds of trees, shrubs and red hibiscus to adorn every corner.

The cosmopolitan town has a feel of easy living, offered by cycle paths which extend out along the coast in either direction. Bicycles are a favorite means of transportation for residents and visitors, offering flexibility and, of course, the opportunity to enjoy the sights. The island’s capital is a lively tourist town with many bats, clubs, restaurants, taverns and narrow streets with all kind of shops. It also has beautiful beaches and is probably the most requested tourist resort on the island. The old port of Kos is located right next to the historic center and is a nice place for an evening walk. There are many excursion boats along the main thoroughfare. Near Kos Town, there are several tradition villages such as Pili, Platani and Zia as well as the thermal baths of Kos, renowned for its sulphurous water and the Sanctuary of Asklepios which is the most important archaeological site of the island.