Ναός του Απόλλωνα στην Καρδάμαινα
Temple of Apollo in Kardamaina: Echoes of Ancient Alasarna
Alasarna: Echoes of Ancient Kos
Uncover Kos's ancient past at Alasarna, an archaeological site with Neolithic roots and Hellenistic and early Christian remains.
Alasarna is an archaeological site on Kos, near Kardamena, revealing layers of history from Neolithic times to the early Christian era. It features the remains of the Temple of Apollo, Hellenistic structures, and early Christian basilicas, offering a glimpse into the island's rich past.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Alasarna
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Unnamed Road, Kos, 853 02, GR
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Getting There
Walking
From the center of Kardamena, walk north on Agiou Nikolaou towards the beach. Continue straight until the T-junction at the end of the street. Turn left onto the coastal road (Akti) and walk along the coast for about 1 kilometer until you reach the intersection with Unnamed Road. Turn left onto Unnamed Road and walk for another 300 meters. Alasarna will be on your right.
Public Transport
Take a public bus from Kardamena to the nearest stop to Alasarna. From the center of Kardamena, walk to the bus stop located on the main road. Board a bus heading towards Kos Town and get off at the stop nearest to Unnamed Road. The fare is approximately €2. Walk approximately 500 meters along Unnamed Road to reach Alasarna.
Taxi
From Kos Airport, a taxi to Alasarna, located near Kardamena, typically costs between €17 and €27. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal.
Local tips
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Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds for a more relaxed experience.
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Check for any special exhibitions or events that may be happening during your visit.
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Allocate at least an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits and the museum's ambiance.
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Bring your camera to capture the beautiful surroundings outside the museum.
Discover more about Alasarna
Alasarna, situated on the outskirts of Kardamena, is a significant archaeological site on the island of Kos. This area, once a bustling urban center, reveals a history spanning from the Neolithic period to the 7th century AD. The site was first identified as the ancient town of Alasarna by Bavarian archaeologist Ludwig Ross, and excavations have been ongoing since 1985.The most prominent structure is the foundation of the Temple of Apollo, believed to be the oldest temple on Kos. This religious center held importance throughout ancient times, maintaining its status even after the capital of Kos moved to Kos Town in 366 B.C. Visitors can still see the platform and three stairs of the temple, along with remains of two Doric columns. To the east lies a pit used for sacrifices to ancient deities.Excavations have also uncovered parts of monumental buildings from the Hellenistic period, including a stoa and numerous inscriptions. Findings from the early Christian Era include a cemetery, houses, and four early Christian basilicas, attesting to the area's lasting religious significance. These discoveries offer insights into a thriving community with bustling commerce until it was abandoned in the mid-7th century AD due to Arab pirate raids.
A brief summary to Alasarna
Use Alasarna as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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More about Kos
Discover the perfect mix of history, nature, and nightlife on the Greek island of Kos. From ancient ruins to stunning beaches, Kos offers a memorable experience for every traveler.
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