Kos has an abundance of unique historical monuments, including the Nerantzia Castle, Agora, Grigoriu street ruins, and the Tree of Hippocrates. Visitors can can explore its Archaeological, the International Hippocrates Foundation and Folklore museums. At every turn you’ll come across evidence of the Island’s long and varied history.
Kefalos Bay is a must-see destination for beach-lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. The long stretch of beach here is a perfect spot for families and couples looking to spend a relaxing day by the sea. The beach boasts a combination of soft sand and smooth pebbles, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing and building sandcastles. But that’s not all Kefalos Bay has to offer.
Step back in time as you explore two ancient churches from the 5th and 6th centuries AD, located just a stone’s throw from the beach. These historical sites offer a glimpse into the past, with remains of columns, mosaic floors and baptisteries. You’ll feel like an explorer discovering a lost ancient civilisation, a hidden treasure.
And, the view from the ancient churches is simply breathtaking, overlooking the beautiful islet of Kastri within the bay. The islet is home to a charming little blue-domed church dedicated to Agios Nikolaos (the patron saint of sailors) and a striking rocky outcropping rising from the island’s center. Visitors can catch a boat or even swim over to the islet to explore it further.
Museums
Archaeological Museum of Kos
In the halls and atrium of the museum, which is housed in an Italian-era building, you will learn about the history of Kos from prehistoric to Hellenistic times. In the anteroom is the head of Hera from a colossal statue. In the north-western wing you can see the imposing statue of Hippocrates. The exhibits come from the sanctuaries of Kos, the Agora, and from monuments such as the Altar of Dionysus, the Odeon and the Roman House. (Eleftherias Square, tel. 22420 28326)
IIK – International Hippocrates Foundation of Kos
The buildings are spread over an area of 380,000 sq m. It’s worth entering the main building, the Hippocratic Melathro, which houses the museum-exhibition, where you can see, among other things, statues, marble busts, ceramic representations of Hippocrates, ancient coins, and inscribed stelae. Located on the road to the Asklepieion, 3.5 km (2.2miles) from the town, tel. 22420 22131.
The Kos Folklore Museum, Kefalos
The Kos Folklore Museum, located in the town of Kefalos, bout 40 kilometers from Kos town, is a fascinating display of a vast collection of farming tools and equipment used throughout the centuries. The museum also showcases a diverse range of traditional artifacts, including intricate woven tapestries, beautiful embroideries, and stunning silks, all preserved with meticulous care. These items provide a rare glimpse into the daily lives of people throughout different historical eras and are a must-see for history enthusiasts and travelers looking to journey back in time.
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