ASCLEPIEION

4 km from Kos, surrounded by cypress trees on a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea, lies the sanctuary of the healing god Asclepius. This vast sanctuary was founded in the ^4th century BC and enlarged over several centuries. Hippocrates, the founder of modern medicine, studied and taught here. His name is associated with the famous Hippocratic Oath, which every young doctor takes to this day. Although not legally binding, it still provides the framework for contemporary medical ethics.

With Hippocrates, the sanctuary became the largest hospital in Antiquity, and many famous personalities came here for treatment over the centuries. Today, you can visit the ruins in a magnificent setting. Because of its sloping terrain, the sanctuary extends over four levels, which were connected by monumental staircases. Some original sections have been preserved, while others were rehabilitated by Italian archaeologists during the Fascist occupation. Today, the ruins of the Roman thermal baths dating from the ^1st century A.D. (first level), the original temple dedicated to Asclepius dating from the ^4th century B.C. (third level) and another giant temple dedicated to the same healing god but built two centuries later (fourth level) can still be seen. Beyond, a staircase leads to a cypress forest, considered sacred in ancient times and dedicated to Apollo. From the top level, you can enjoy an exceptional panorama of Kos-ville, the sea and the Turkish mainland.