FEBS MPST 2013

The town of Kos was founded in 366 BC and has been the capital of Kos island ever since. It is situated on the north-eastern side of the island and provides access to every part of the island.

Eighteen thousand people live in this beautiful town, full of palm trees and colorful flowers. It is a cosmopolitan centre, offering a vast range of choices, starting from the magnificent Archeological Museum and the Ancient Market, to a rich modern market and numerous bars & restaurants. A trade centre throughout the centuries, Kos has a really interesting market of -among others- jewellery, clothing and leather gadgets.

The town of Kos, a crossroad of civilisations, prides itself and its multinationalism and beauty formed by a number of cultures. Conquerors and visitors, nations from Europe and Asia, have put their stamp on each and every rock in this place.
At the main harbour, cruises from all over the world arrive to admire the island’s beauty. The imposing Medieval Castle, being one of the oldest and most beautiful castles in the entire Mediterranean area, will captivate you.

The Asclepieion is undoubtedly the most important monument in Kos. It lies 3, 5 km north-west of the ancient city and stands on the slopes of a low hill surrounded by cypress trees.

It is the site of the first school of medicine and of a hospital built in the 5th century BC. Climbing the 30 steps to the second level, you will see the best preserved remains of the Asclepieion in the elegant, slender white columns of the 2nd century BC, Temple of Apollo. High atop these remains you will get the best views of the entire Asclepieion site, Kos, the Turkish coastline and the nearby islands.

The Hippocratic Oath ceremony is performed here every summer, at the temple of Asclepieion, spoken in ancient Greek. Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Othomans and Italians have passed through the island and formed the mosaic of modern Kos. Arcaelogical monuments reaching back to more than 3000 years can be found all over the island. Numerous castles, ancient temples, old theatres and the Ancient Market remain throughout the centuries witnesses of the glory and fame Kos has known. Voices from another era can still be heard in the landscapes of Kos.

Kos, famous for its cosmopolitan environment, offers a great variety in recreation centers satisfying all kind of tastes. Numerous cafes, cocktail bars and nightclubs are scattered all over the town. Enjoy authentic Greek live music or listen all the international hits! Try exquisite gourmet international cuisine in luxurious first class restaurants and unique island specialties in traditional tavernas.

For visitors that prefer the land, try cycling or jogging through Kos Island’s beautiful countryside. Approximately 14 kms away from the city of Kos, the mountain Dikaios is well known of its impressive natural beauty. Vast vegetation, great variations in altitude, picturesque traditional villages and a breath-taking view of Kos and the surrounding islands certainly contribute in making hiking or climbing an experience to remember. Other options for outdoor activities include tennis, go-carting or horseback riding.

Discover the multiple possibilities for sports and activities on Kos such as wind surfing, scuba diving, water skiing, parachuting or sailing.

Island Hopping

Due to its geographical position, Kos is perfect for daily tours to the beautiful surrounding islands of Nisyros, Patmos, Kalymnos, Rhodes, Leros.

Each of the islands has something different to offer to the visitor with a maximum travel time of 2 hours by hydrofoil.

An alternative option is to take a visit to Bodrum - the ancient Alikarnassos - in Turkey, which lies, just across the city of Kos. Combine two countries by travelling just 30 minutes!