The Plane Tree of Hippocrates
Visit the legendary Plane Tree of Hippocrates in Kos Town, a symbol of ancient medical wisdom and a lasting legacy.
The Plane Tree of Hippocrates stands as a living testament to the legacy of ancient medicine in Kos Town, Greece. According to legend, Hippocrates, the father of medicine, taught his students beneath its shade, imparting knowledge of healing and natural remedies. While the present tree is estimated to be between 500 and 1,000 years old, it is believed to be a descendant of the original tree from Hippocrates' time. Located in the Platia Platanou (Square of the Platane) in the heart of Kos Town, the tree is near the Castle of the Knights and the Gazi Hassan Mosque. The tree's massive branches are supported by metal scaffolding due to its age and the hollowing of its trunk. The Plane Tree of Hippocrates has a circumference of approximately 12 meters, making it one of the largest plane trees in Europe. Over the centuries, the tree has become a symbol of medical knowledge and learning. Seeds and cuttings from the tree have been distributed worldwide to medical schools, libraries, and institutions. The site offers visitors a chance to reflect on Hippocrates' contributions to medicine and the importance of healing and human connection.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Take a stroll around Platanos Square to admire the nearby Castle of the Knights and Gazi Hassan Mosque.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique sight of the ancient tree and its supporting scaffolding.
A brief summary to Hippocrates Plane Tree
- Kos, 853 00, GR
Getting There
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Walking
The Plane Tree of Hippocrates is centrally located in Kos Town and easily accessible on foot. From the main square (Platia Eleftherias), walk northeast towards the waterfront. Continue along the promenade until you reach Georgiou Papanikolaou Street. Turn left, and the tree will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus from other parts of the island, disembark at the main bus station in Kos Town. From there, walk towards the town center and follow the directions for walking from Platia Eleftherias. The Plane Tree of Hippocrates is about a 10-minute walk from the bus station. A single urban bus ticket costs approximately €1.70 if purchased from the driver or €1.60 from a kiosk.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Kos Town. Inform the driver you wish to go to the Plane Tree of Hippocrates in Platanos Square. The ride from most central locations should take no more than 5-10 minutes and typically costs around €5-€7. Taxi fares in Kos start at €3.00, with each kilometer priced at €1.50.
Attractions Nearby to Hippocrates Plane Tree
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Plane Tree of Hippocrates
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Λεωφόρος των Φοινίκων
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Fountain Space
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Palazzo del Governo
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I LOVE KOS
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Statue of Hippocrates
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Nerantzia Castle
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Castle of the Knight of Saint John
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Archaeological Museum of Kos
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Eleftherias Central Square
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Kos Harbour
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Πηγή Ιπποκράτη
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Πηγή Ιπποκράτη
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Church of Agia Paraskevi
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Dolphin Square
Landmarks nearby to Hippocrates Plane Tree
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The Loggia mosque - Mosque of Gazi Hassan Pasha
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Hospitaller House of Commander Francesco Sans
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Sanctuary of Aphrodite
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Ιπποτική Οικία του κομεντόρη Fransesco Sans
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Tourist train Kos
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Sail Kos
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Southwest medieval bastion
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Defterdar Mosque
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Kos Municipal Market
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Jasmin Private Cruises
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Πηγή Ιπποκράτη
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Greek Designers - Greek Products
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Part of the Ancient Agora
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Poseidon Boat Tour
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Παραλιακή Οδός πόλης Κω