5 FUN FACTS ABOUT KOS

MYTHS AND HISTORY THAT INVITE EXPLORATION

Kos is an island that invites endless exploration, through the rural fields and abundant green, surging indigo waves and local charm in the narrow streets of its town. Being in the centre of the Dodecanese ('twelve islands' in Greek), Kos is surrounded by the Aegean Sea and is the third largest island in the Dodecanese chain.

Whether you are a history buff, an adventure seeker or craving some well-deserved relaxation on crystal-clear beaches, in Kos many opportunities unfold. If you want to know more about the island, here are 5 fun facts that will surely spark an interest in you and possibly even a visit.

FACT NO.1: A VOLCANIC WONDER

Sitting just a ferry away from Kos, the small island of Nisyros tells a story of myth and geological history.

According to legend the volcano was formed when Poseidon, God of the sea struck his trident to detach a part of Kos to crush his opponent, the Titan Polyvotis. To explain the volcanic activity of Nisyros, it is said that the Titan is still trapped under the volcano, struggling for his freedom. The name 'Polyvotis' commonly used by locals to refer to the volcanic system of Nisyros, engraving this myth into memory. Scientifically, the volcano was formed in mega eruption about 250,000 years ago, and the most recent volcanic activity was more than 130 years ago.

For an awe-inspiring experience you can take a short ferry boat trip from Kos and hop on the small island where Nisyros sits. You can visit its crater 'Stefanos' and walk on the perfectly safe caldera, the large basin-shaped depression, formed so many years ago from the eruption.

FACT NO.2: THE FATHER OF MEDICINE & THE GOD OF HEALING

Hippocrates, known as the father of medicine, was born in Kos, revered for his 'Hippocratic Oath'. A pledge that many doctors all over the world take and hold as gospel. One that outlines the ethical principles they must follow as they pursue their careers as physicians, vouching to save lives selflessly. Still, today many medical graduates visit Kos, the birthplace of the ancient Greek physician and oath maker, to make their own vow to the life of medicine.

In Kos Town, tradition says that Hippocrates taught his students beneath a great plane tree. A 500-year-old tree, believed to be a descendant of the original, stands there today, known as the 'Hippocrates Tree', an iconic symbol and site. A short distance away, the Hippocrates Garden Cultural Centre, replicates the ancient Greek Settlement and life. This botanical garden showcases the herbs and plants that Hippocrates used in his medical practice.

Additionally, Kos is home to the Sanctuary of Asclepius, one of the most archeologically significant sites in Greece. The sanctuary is an ancient healing centre where people would seek treatment and cures for their ailments. Dedicated to Asclepius known as the God of medicine, the predecessor of Hippocrates, the one he honoured in his oath. Nowadays, the impressive ruins of the sanctuary can be visited and visitors can gain insight to the island's medical history.

FACT NO.3: JOURNEYS BY SEA AND LAND

Do you always want to experience more? Because of Kos' location, island hopping is as easy as taking a breath of sea air. Kos is the perfect base for exploring more of the Dodecanese archipelago with plenty of nearby islands within your grasp. The option of island day trips by boat is always open, when you are in Kos.

Kos is also known as the 'island of cycling', it proudly carries this title with scenic landscapes, 13 kilometres of dedicated cycle paths but also rural trails that await exploration on two wheels. Beyond the seaside route in town, the island opens into paths that cut through green fields with olive groves, vineyards and sleepy villages that feel untouched by time.

FACT NO.4: A SKY THAT NEVER SLEEPS

For evenings soaked in colour, the sky of Kos is painted beautifully in sunsets to remember. The combination of clear skies, the pinks and oranges as the sun dips into the calm of the sea, creating a sight that stays with you. Kos is famous for its sunsets and you can visit Kardamena or Mastichari, prime locations for sunset viewing.

If you feel like the day has passed you by, there's no reason to worry, there is a light in Kos that never goes away. Kos holds a secret advantage of the other islands; it never fully goes dark. Meaning, you can open your balcony door to bask in the night sea views at any point. This phenomenon is because the lights from the surrounding islands, provide some illumination during the night, so the lively atmosphere carries on.

FACT NO.5: THE MEDIEVAL STRONGHOLD

The Castle of the Knights of St. John, also known as Neratzia Castle, stands proudly as you enter Kos Town's harbour, a magnificent stronghold built between the 14th and 15th centuries. It stands as an echo of the strategy and strength of the guardians of Kos' centuries ago.

A true sight to behold, the castle holds an interesting fact from an architectural perspective. The knights constructed the building by reusing columns and blocks from Greek and Roman ruins, embedding fragments of temples and other ancient buildings.

Today, the castle is one of Kos' most striking sights, a testament to the layers and layers of the island's history, set in stone.

WHERE TO STAY IN KOS

If you want to experience these facts first-hand, the initial step on your to-do list is choosing the right accommodation. Choose Atlantica Mikri Poli Kos in Kardamena for a family-friendly escape full of activities. Opt for Atlantica Marmari Palace in Mastichari if you want a poolside paradise or Atlantica Marmari Beach for a blend of relaxation and adventure. Pick Atlantica Beach Resort for a haven for both families and adults, situated close to Kardamena's charm. Or go for Atlantica Thalassa Hotel in Lambi which provides a more secluded kind of relaxation. If you are searching for an adults-only getaway in Kos, Atlantica Belvedere Resort in Kardamena with its Moroccan-inspired design and atmosphere, guarantees a unique setting for romance.

Kos is an island rich in both history and myth, offering relaxation and recreation. From volcanic wonders, ancient medicinal insights and sites to beautiful skies and landscapes, Kos is a place that invites you to discover it.