The long centuries under Byzantine rule were beneficial to the island, but by the 11th century, it was under constant threat from Saracen and pirate raids before passing into the hands of the Venetians, the Genoese and, eventually, the Knights of the Order of St. John in 1315.In 1522, the Turks finally conquered it after a series of unsuccessful attempts. The Turks held it until 1912, when the Italians occupied it and the other Dodecanese, and Kos did not become united with Greece until 194It is both lush and fertile, with an abundance of springs and streams, gorgeous beaches and a marvelous climate. Kos today has developed into a cosmopolitan resort, which is becoming more and more in demand, for apart from its physical beauty, it possesses some remarkable archaeological sites and important monuments leftovers of various eras - excellent facilities for tourists and, furthermore, it is easy to get to whether by boat or by plane.For the restless traveller.The island's capital and main port, also called Kos, is situated on its northeast coast. It is a beautiful town, set amidst abundant greenery. Most of the town is of recent origin. Nevertheless, it also boasts some well-preserved Venetian buildings, the castle of the Knights which overlooks the harbour, as well as extensive Hellenistic and Roman ruins.
The present town, whose development has been based on a carefully studied land use plan, is characterized by flower-filled squares lined by impressive buildings and broad, shaded streets.Further embellished by clusters of palm trees, the town's streets are enlivened by thousands of bicycles - the locals' favorite means of transport. Kos is the centre of life on the island in every way. Most of its hotels, tourist facilities, restaurants and nightclubs are concentrated here, along with a wide variety of shops and boutiques.
Other things worth seeing round the town include Hippocrates' Plane Tree, said to have been planted by the father of medicine and under whose shade tradition maintains that he taught; it is considered the oldest tree in Europe.The Venetian Castle of the Knights (15th century), a splendid example of the imposing military architecture of the age. The Loggia, a two-storey building of the 18th century with an elegant minaret towering over it,both constructed with materials taken from the ancient site. The Archaeological Museum, containing finds from the Classical, Hellenistic and Roman eras, including a 4th century B.C. statue of Hippocrates.The famous Asklepieion is situated some 4 kilometres from Kos town in a wooded area overlooking the sea. Its building commenced after the death of Hippocrates in the mid 4th century B.C.Because of the sloping terrain, the sanctuary is constructed on three terraces, which are joined by a magnificent staircase. The first terrace formed a kind of courtyard and was surrounded by colonnades. According to accounts of the time, various ceremonies and festivals were conducted here and it may have housed the medical school. The second terrace was dominated by the Great Altar, while the majestic Doric temple of Asklepius (2nd c. B.C.) rests on the third. The sculptures that adorned the sanctuary buildings were master pieces.Kos could also form a base for visiting other islands in the vicinity, such as worldly, sophisticated Rhodes, or less well known places, off the beaten path.Kos if famous for the beautiful beaches. One of the best beaches starts from the south end of the city and continues for about 2 km.Other beaches are, Tigaki, Marmari, Mastihari, Kardamena, Agios Stefanos and Kamari.