Kos Old Town Travel Guide

Kos Old Town is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern life, inviting visitors to step back in time while enjoying the contemporary amenities of Kos. This pedestrian-only area, stretching from Freedom Square to Diagoras Square near Kos Harbour, is a lively hub filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The architecture is a captivating mix of Ottoman, Byzantine, and modern styles, adorned with colorful bougainvillea.The Old Town is home to several significant landmarks. The Ancient Agora, once the commercial and social center of Kos, features ruins of temples, columns, and public buildings. Nearby, the Plane Tree of Hippocrates, a historic sycamore, is believed to be where the renowned physician taught his students. The Archaeological Museum, housed in a neoclassical building in Eleftherias Square, showcases artifacts from the island's rich past. The Turkish Bath House offers a glimpse into the Ottoman influence on the island.Kos Town has been shaped by various historical events. Founded in 366 BC, it quickly became a major maritime center. The Knights of St. John fortified the town in the 14th century, leaving behind the impressive Neratzia Castle. The town was under Turkish domination for centuries before being occupied by the Italians in 1912. A devastating earthquake in 1933 led to a reconstruction that blended the old with the new, creating the unique character of Kos Old Town.Today, Kos Old Town is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the island's rich history and experience its vibrant present.