The timeless, blue-green waves of the Aegean Sea lap at the shores of the Greek island of Kos, pounding out the passing of centuries, while ancient ruins attest to its more than 3500 years of history.

Legends dating back to mythological times have Hercules arriving on the island after having been shipwrecked. Hippocrates, known as the founder of medicine, was born there between 460 and 470 BC, the 18th in a line begun by castaways after the fall of Troy.

Led by a physician, all were followers in the cult of Asklepios, the healer god, who was worshipped on Kos for hundreds of years as pilgrims traveled to the island, performed ritual cleansings and slept in the temple, seeking to be cured. (See Places To See in Kos)

Among St. Paul's travels to spread the news of Christianity was a visit to the isle of Kos in 30 AD. Many early churches were built on the island - the ruins of which can be seen today - but were destroyed in the earthquake of 535 AD. (See Kos Visitors Guide)

The Turkish occupation of Kos began in the early 16th century and lasted almost 400 years. Characterized by their brutality, the Turks were known for their near daily persecutions and killings of Kos's people. Only in secretly teaching their language and history in hidden schools and monastaries was their Greek culture maintained during this 'reign of terror.' (More info on Kos Museums)

When the Italians came in 1912, they were considered liberators, but Facism came with them and again the islanders were forced to suffer cultural changes. The Nazis took control in 1943 and once more the Kos people found themselves captives. Finally, the British with the Allies came to their rescue in 1945 and turned the island over to Greece on March 7th, 1948. 

Greece-Kos Town

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Greece-Kos Town

Kos Island 2010 Official Video Vol.2

Agora KosTown

From the Romans to pirates to knights, Turks and Nazis, Kos has changed governmental hands over and over. Its name has changed too. Kynnis at one time, then Meropis, then Karis which means shrimp, thought to be because of the shape of the island, and then to now, Kos. History scholars cannot seem to agree where the name came from nor why it was so named yet from its pristine, modern beaches to its antiquated ruins, Kos remains as a testament to a determined people and an enduring culture.

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Package Details	Original	Deal	Saving
7 Nights All Incl. 5* Corfu - Sept '11 booked 7 days before departure.	£1310	£484.70	63%
Flight, Transfers, Villa, Kos - June '11 booked 60 days in advance, online.	£995	£547.25	47%
10 days 4* Hotel, hire car - Feb '11 early booking (5 months in adv online)	£886	£540.46	39%

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Written by Anna James in Brief History

Originally Creted 28 October 2011

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