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Tomb of Harmilos: A Glimpse into Ancient Kos

Uncover the secrets of the Tomb of Harmilos in Pyli, Kos: a journey through ancient history and island heritage.

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Explore the Tomb of Harmilos in Pyli, Kos, a family grave dating back to 300 BC, possibly belonging to a mythical king or a wealthy landowner. Discover its unique architecture and historical significance, later used as a place of worship and shelter.

A brief summary to Tomb of Harmilos

  • Πυλί, 853 00, GR

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby traditional village of Pyli and its fresh water spring.
  • Note that the tomb is located 2 meters below ground level; be prepared for a descent.
  • Look for the marble remnants and inscription from the tomb that are now part of the Church of Ypsosis tou Timiou Stavrou.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Tomb of Harmilos is located approximately 300 meters east of the main square in Pyli. From the square, follow the signs towards the Tomb of Harmilos. The walk is short and manageable, taking you through the charming village streets.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from Kos town, disembark at the Pyli bus stop. From there, walk to the main square and follow the walking directions to the Tomb of Harmilos, roughly 300 meters away. Bus tickets from Kos Town to Pyli cost approximately €2-€4. The bus from Kos to Pyli runs twice daily.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Kos. A taxi from Kos Town to Pyli will cost approximately €20-€25 and takes around 15 minutes. From the village center, it is a short walk to the tomb. Taxis can be found at official ranks or called by phone. The starting price for a taxi in Kos is 3.0 EUR, and each KM is priced at 1.5 EUR.

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Discover more about Tomb of Harmilos

The Tomb of Harmilos, situated in the Peripatos area of Pyli on the island of Kos, offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's ancient past. This family grave, constructed from limestone and white marble, is believed to have been dedicated to Harmilos, potentially a mythical king or hero of Kos, or a rich landowner. The structure dates back to around 300 B.C.. The tomb's architecture is notable, featuring an arched roof and symmetrically arranged tombs, forming twelve crypts for the deceased. It is believed a portico once led to the entrance. Above the grave, there was a heroon (shrine or portico) of Harmylos, with sculpted marble, which is now part of the neighboring Church of Ypsosis tou Timiou Stavrou (Exaltation of the Holy Cross). An inscription, also found within the church, helped to determine the structure's age. Bavarian archaeologist Ludwig Ross, in 1844, considered it one of the best-preserved monuments of its kind. In early Christian times, the underground arched structure served as a place of worship and later as a hideout, notably during the German invasion of Kos in 1943. Today, the tomb is located approximately 2 meters below ground level. According to local lore, a tunnel connects the grave to the Harmyli spring, located 150 meters west, which supplies water to Pyli. The Harmylean family was prominent on Kos, with one descendant, Diogenes, preventing an attack on Kos by Cretans.

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