Kos Archaeological Museum
Displaying mainly Hellenistic and Roman treasures found in and
around Kos Town and dating from as far back as the 3rd century BC,
the Archaeological Museum allows visitors a glimpse into the former
glory enjoyed by this quaint port town. The museum is in
Eleutherias Square and is housed in a two-storey neoclassical
building which is itself a monument, dating back to 1935 and the
Italian occupation. The museum's collection includes artefacts and
archaeological findings from Kos and surrounds and even Rhodes and
there are pieces on display from sites like ancient Asklepeion, the
Altar of Dionysus, the Odeon and the Roman Residence. From original
mosaics of Hippocrates, who taught here, to statues of Asklepieion,
Artemis and Hygeia found north of Decumanus Maximus, a trip to the
Archaeological Museum provides a good foundation of knowledge for
visitors who plan to explore the surrounding sites. Many remarkable
and valuable sculptures, mosaics and coins, among other things, are
on display and the museum is well arranged and labelled.
Regrettably, this wonderful museum has been closed recently for
renovation and it is unclear when it is due to reopen. To avoid
disappointment, check beforehand whether visitors are being
admitted.
Address: Plateia Eleftherias
Kos Archaeological Museum
Tedmek
Patmos
This island, sometimes called the 'Jerusalem of the Aegean', is
an official pilgrimage site for members of the Catholic religion,
because it is home to the sacred cavern where the exiled St John
the Evangelist was inspired to write the Biblical Book of
Revelations. Cruise ships and ferries keep the small port very
active, disgorging visitors who wish to visit the holy cave and
witness the cracks in the wall, said to have appeared when St John
heard the voice of the Lord. The small Monastery of the Apocalypse
is very close to the cave and both are worth exploring. The small
and lovely Chapel of St Anne encloses the cave and was built in the
11th century. Crowning the island is the immense Monastery of St
John, with its buttressed walls and, inside, frescoes, icons,
tapestries and pendants made of precious stones. The monastery was
completed in the 11th century and it is a richly decorated fortress
with spectacular views, that would be fascinating to explore no
matter what your religious beliefs. The historical centre of
Patmos, including the monastery and the sacred cave, are a UNESCO
World Heritage Site. Visitors can walk up to the monastery from
Skala along the Byzantine path.
Patmos
Chris Vlachos
Knights Castle
The Castle of the Knights of the Order of Saint John is situated
at the entrance of Kos harbour and is an amazing place to visit.
The sprawling ruins, some of which are extremely well-preserved,
are located on what used to be an island and the bridge which once
joined it to the mainland is still usable. Parts of the castle date
back to the late 14th century but as it took over a hundred years
to build there is evidence of more than one architectural style at
the site. The castle has two defensive precincts: the interior has
four circular corner towers and the larger exterior precinct has
massive bastions in its four corners, battlements and gun ports.
The two precincts are separated by a moat and joined by a
drawbridge. There is a Hellenistic frieze over the main gate. A
museum on the site, which is housed in a reconstructed building
that was once the knights' warehouse, holds alters, sculptures and
inscriptions from the site. The elevated sections of the castle
afford visitors astounding views over the ocean. It is best to wear
sensible walking shoes when visiting as exploring the castle
thoroughly means traversing some steep steps and uneven ground.
Address: Kos harbour entrance
Knight's Castle
Max Detheridge-Smith
Kos experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters, much like
other Greek islands. Temperatures are hottest in July and August,
when they range from 82ºF (28ºC) during the day to 72ºF (22ºC) at
night. Conditions can get substantially hotter during heat waves.
Rainfall is almost non-existent in summer, bar a few showers
between October and March.
Summer is the most popular time to visit, though late spring and
early autumn may be better options for travellers who dislike very
warm conditions. Springtime visitors will find the island fresh and
lush, and the seas warm enough for swimming. The ocean is
pleasantly warm in autumn too. Visitors will find far smaller
crowds during both shoulder seasons.
Kos Island International Airport
Location: Kos Island International Airport is located roughly 16
miles (26km) southwest of Kos Town.
Car Rental:
Hertz, Avis, Thrifty and Sixt are available for use.
Parking
There is limited parking at the airport, short-term and
long-term.
Along with sun-drenched beaches, Kos offers visitors some
wonderful sightseeing opportunities. History buffs will enjoy a day
trip to Patmos, the dramatically beautiful island where John the
Apostle wrote the Book of Revelations. The sacred healing temple of
Asclepieion is another must-see. Located south of Kos Town, it's
reputedly where the physician Hippocrates taught his students. Agia
Irini's hot sulphur springs and Agios Fokos' hot sea water pools
are also worth visiting for a therapeutic dip.
Visitors could also stroll around the old harbour area opposite
Dolphins Square. The area is home to Knights Castle, which is one
of Kos Town's most famous attractions. The ruins are exciting and
extensive. Visitors may also enjoy the Hellenistic Temple's ruins
in the old harbour locale. Ancient Greeks dedicated it to Hercules.
The Archaeological Museum in the Plateia Eleftherias will captivate
visitors' imaginations as well.
Otherwise, Kos has some of the best beaches in Greece, where the
warm Aegean Sea is perfect for jet skiing, parasailing or relaxing
in banana boats. Hikers will relish Dikaios Mountain.