On my day trip to Kos from Bodrum, one of my priorities was to visit one of the island’s pristine beaches. I was able to make a couple hours for a beach near Kos Town, Agios Fokas.
The Asclepeion of Kos, the most important archaeological site on the island, was one of many healing sanctuaries in ancient Greece dedicated to the god Asclepius. The priests at these temples usually prescribed a trip to the baths or a gymnasium for a cure, and sometimes used substances like opium to induce trances in the patients. Non-venomous snakes were also often used in the healing process along with dogs.
The most prominent structure on the harbor in Kos Town is the Castle of Neratzia, a huge Crusader castle built by the Knights of St. John. The castle was built between the late 1300s and early 1500s. The castle once occupied its own small island.
The ancient Agora is the largest archaeological site in Kos Town. Construction on the site dates back to the 4th century BC and contains the foundations of many homes and temples. It’s one of the largest agoras excavated in Greece to date.
The Ottomans left their mark on Kos, ruling for nearly 400 years. While walking around the old town, there are a few scattered remnants of Ottoman occupation.
Kos Town has a nice mix of ancient, medieval, and modern sites to keep someone busy for a day. There are churches, Ottoman mosques, and more.
Kos Town has a lot of churches, mostly for the Greek Orthodox faithful. Of all the churches I passed by, three churches stuck out above the rest.
Outside of the ancient Agora and the Western Excavation Area, Kos Town has a few more ancient Greek and Roman ruins to visit. No, they aren’t as spectacular as many other ancient ruins in Greece, but they’re worth seeking out if you find yourself on the island. Admission to all of the ancient ruins in Kos Town is free.
Of all the ancient sites I was able to visit in Kos Town, the Western Excavation Area was my favorite. It beat the ancient Agora in terms of mosaics and quality of ruins. It’s not quite as good as the Asclepeion just outside of town, but it’s worth seeking out. Admission to the site is free and it’s open 24 hours.
The Greek island of Kos (Κως) is a popular tourist destination in the Aegean Sea, just across from the Turkish resort town of Bodrum. Many tourists make day trips to and from Bodrum.