Asclepion is dedicated to the great god of healing, Asclepius. Not only is it the most famous monument of Kos, but also one of the most famous sanatoriums of ancient Greece. It is located about 4 kilometers away from the city of Kos, in a wooded slope of a low hill, in the middle of a cypress grove. The location of the site must have been carefully selected in order to refresh and offer visitors a great view to the sea and Asia Minor. In the three-level space there used to be a complex of buildings, with the temple of Asclepius in the center. The saved ruins date back to the 4th century B.C. In 242 B.C., during the reign of the Ptolemies, this holy place obtained diplomatic immunity in cases of hostilities, which lead to its prosperity. At that time, the Koans introduced the Big Asclepieia, a nationwide celebration during which musical contests were held. In the sanatorium slumber was most probably applied as a method of treatment; people being treated would see in their sleep what to do to get healed after a purification process. However, evidence, such as 24 medical tools, has been found proving that more scientific methods were applied. The church of Virgin Mary of Tarsus, belonging to the monastery of Patmos, was built on the ancient temple during the early Christian era.
Opening hours:
Winter: (1/11 – 31/3): 08:30-15:00, closed on Mondays
Summer: Tuesday - Friday: 08:00-20:00, Saturday - Monday: 08:00-15:00