Archaeological sites in Kos

Ancient Ruins of Kos

Kos serves as a living museum of Aegean history, showcasing architectural remains from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine eras. This collection features the Asklepieion, an ancient healing center dedicated to the god of medicine, alongside the Roman Odeon and the mosaic-filled Casa Romana. The island's defensive history is preserved in the medieval Castle of Antimachia and the hilltop ruins of Palio Pyli. Visitors can explore urban life through the Ancient Agora and the Xisto Gymnasium, or discover early Christian influence at the seaside Basilica of Ayios Stefanos.

kallerna / CC BY-SA 3.0

Roman Odeon

Music competitions used to take place at this ancient open-air theater.

Martin Vank / CC-BY-SA

Big temple of Asklepieion

This 2nd-century BC Doric temple stands on the highest terrace of the Asklepieion sanctuary. Dedicated to the god of healing, the site features surviving marble columns and foundations that once housed the sanctuary's cult statue.

Elisa Triolo / CC BY-SA 2.0

Casa Romana

This house got its name after it was restored by Italians. There are beautiful mosaics everywhere around.

Karelj / Public domain

Castle of Antimachia

Explore the ancient fortress built on a hill and enjoy the panoramic view of the Kos island and the sea.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

Ancient Agora

Consisting of ruins of pillars and buildings, this place used to be the main town market where people met.

ich selbst / CC BY-SA 3.0

Palio Pyli Historic Site

There are only ruins left from the former Byzantine castle at this site. However, you can still see that once it used to be magnificent.

Asurnipal / CC BY-SA 4.0

The Gymnasium

Also known as 'Xisto', this structure served as a training center for sportsmen. There was also a swimming pool here.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

Haihoutes - Ghost Town

Also known as Agios Dimitrios, this abandoned settlement features stone houses and narrow alleys characteristic of traditional Dodecanese architecture. The village was largely deserted in the mid-20th century, leaving behind a preserved shell of rural island life.