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1. Kos Villages: Afsendiou village in Kos
The village of Asfendiou is one of the most attractive villages of Kos, lying on the slopes of Mount Dikaion and overlooking the sea.
It is surrounded by lush greenery and abundant spring waters, while its traditional houses and narrow alleys are creating wonderful scenery.
Rooms for rent, excellent taverns and traditional cafes are available in the village.
The nearby villages of Lagoudi, Evangelistria, Asomatos, Agios Georgios and Agios Dimitrios are as attractive and picturesque as Asfendiou.
2. Kos Beaches: Agios Fokas Beach: Agios Fokas is a picturesque beach located 6km south of Kos town and 2 km from the thermal baths in Thermes. Part of the beach has black sand and pebbles, whereas the other part has white sand. The locals have managed to organize the beach quite well with umbrellas, sundecks and other facilities.
Usually it is less congested than other beaches probably because it is rather pebbled than sandy. The left hand part of the beach is used by nudists. Agios Fokas has an excellent view to the Aegean, especially during the afternoon and the night hours. There are many taverns serving nice delicacies and Greek cuisine. It is reachable by car or taxi and there are buses running frequently from Kos Town.
3. Kos Beaches: Agios Stefanos Beach
Agios Stefanos is found at a distance of 40 km southwest of Kos town and 3,5 km northeastern of Kefalos, a tourist settlement in Kos. The rocky region around Agios Stefanos is covered with beautiful flowers. In some parts the beach has sand and in some others it has pebbles.
The remains of old Christian temples are found near the beach offering a great privilege to the artists and photographers who want to shoot some impressive pictures. However, the most interesting part of the area is Kastri, a small islet standing as a desolate castle in the middle of the sea. All of these features are uniquely combined to create a lovely environment for the visitors. The waters are shallow and many umbrellas line the coast providing shade.
The Basilica of Agios Stefanos. by Archimandrite KONSTANTINOS MANIOTIS – Chief of the central church of Kefalos
Translated by Sissy Tsantsaraki
Of all the basilicas were discovered during excavations on the island the most majestic and more well-preserved is the Basilica of St. Stephen, located near the isthmus of the head, “in picturesque spite of land by the sea” by Prof. Anastasios . K. Orlando, just opposite the island of Kastri. In fact it is a complex of two three-aisled basilicas are built on a rock and kept in excellent condition (see figure).
The discovery is due to the Italian professor Laurenzi and reconstruction is estimated between 469 and 554 AD, ie between the two major devastating earthquakes that hit the island from the second of which was fatal for the monument.

Impression is that the mosaics are preserved in good condition. In the center of the floor of the narthex mosaic representation is two peacocks, the gaps formed between the central circle and the square that surrounds it, and show an eagle with open wings in the center of the lattice that decorates the above cycle. The whole complex of complement representations of birds in various poses.
In the beginning of the 4th BC century, with the Mediolana decree, the faith in Christianity declared free and equal with other known religions. This was a real triumph for Christianity. The people had now, though, more praying and pastoring needs because the number of the Christians had been raised and their worship could be enriched. This fact, made them create the first, new and impressive churches, especially in the Palestine area in the beginning (from King Great Constantine and his mother Saint Helen) and in the Holy-Land – Rome- Constantinople area later. These churches were named “Basilicas”, which means all over the world, the church where the King Christ is beloved.
The main characteristics of this kind of church are the line of its length combined with a big depth and height. On the island of Kos, which exists in this area, we can see a lot of Basilicas. The most impressive and well-kept, is based in Agios Stefanos bay, opposite little “Kastri” island. In fact, it is a complex of two Basilicas, built on a rock in a perfect condition.

They were found by the Italian professor “Laurenzi” and were rebuilt between 469 and 554 AC and between the two big earthquakes that took place on the island. The second one, actually, was fatal for the Basilica.

The south Basilica which is 22, 85 X 15, 50 meters, is the biggest and the oldest of the whole complex. To built it, people used red, local porous stone. If we see the basement, there must have been a domed pillar, which led to the “Ethrio”. Ethrio, was a big rectangular yard, in front of the Basilica’s face, which was surrounded by big granite pillars that were repaired. The Ethrio was used for practical, social and operational needs, especially before the addition of the “Narthikas” in the church. (Narthikas is the first room of the church, where we can usually light our candles and see the first icons. In this room, in the old times, the Christians that had not been baptized yet were listening to the preaching and watching the service up to a certain point). In the center of Ethrio there are ruins of an old source. Its water was used for drinking or cleaning the body and soul, that was happening symbolically.After the “cleaning” the people were entering in Narthikas. The rest of the people, who had to be taught first, or had done something bad, or were in seine, had to stay in Ethrio.Because of the lack of space, the Ethrio of Agios Stefanos is built bendy. Its floor is lower than the Narthikas’ floor and the main church’s. So, people sculptured stairs along all the east side of Ethrio.<a href=”http://kosrentals.gr/wp-content/uploads/agstef-ruins.jpg”><img class=”alignright size-medium wp-image-496″ title=”agstef-ruins” src=”http://kosrentals.gr/wp-content/uploads/agstef-ruins-300×225.jpg” alt=”” width=”300″ height=”225″ /></a>

Descending these sculptured stairs, we enter in Narthikas, a long and narrow room. The people shouldn’t be able to watch straight what was happening in the “Iero” (the holy place where only the priests are), so they could enter to Narthikas from the left or the right side doors only.

In the centre of the floor of Narthikas, there is a mosaic with two peacocks in the space between the central circle and the square which is around. We can see also in the centre of the complex an eagle with open wings and many other birds in different poses that fill in this circle.

Passing Narthikas we enter through the three gates the main church, the place where all the faiths were gathering for the service. On the main entrance’s floor there is a mosaic sign.

The main church is rectangular and ends in the arch of the Iero. It is separated in three spaces with pillars. The middle one is larger than the side ones. The pillars are made by white marble and have Ionian capitals . The space in between the pillars was added with marble places, some of which we can see today.

The middle space was built higher in order to have more light coming from the side and the middle space’s windows. In the middle space there was a marble pulpit, a part of which, we can see today with its stairs. The floor is decorated with a mosaic filled with united wheels.

The Iero is separated from the rest of the main church by the ruins of the Templo (the icon-screen) and is slightly higher, because it is a place only for the priests. In the middle of it, there are marble ruins of “Holy Table” which was probably the base where its four legs were based. It is rectangular with an embossed place on its side.

Around the “Holy Table” there are ruins of the “Sinthrono”. The chairs where the priests were sitting having the Bishop in the centre. The Sinthrono has a special meaning because it is showing the great teaching importance of the Bishop who is symbolizing the Christ himself.

Through a door, on the north side of the temple, close to the Narthikas, we enter another Basilica, which bends on the first Basilica’s north wall. It is separated in three spaces too, not only with pillars but with rectangular built bases also, which is the only difference between the two Basilicas.

It’s Sinthrono and the basement of the temple is in a good condition. The floor is decorated with a mosaic filled in with geometric and plant complexes. At the back of the Iero of the second basilica, at the northeast side of the whole complex, we can see the ruins of the “Baptistirio”. The place where the people were baptized after the teaching procedure.

It is almost square, 10,55x 9,45 meters inside. There are corridors around it and is connected with three doors that lead to the north, west and south side of it. The walls are 0,58 m. In the four corners of it, we can see four square pillars, built 0,42×0,42 m. which were basing the low sculptured dome. The floor is covered by marble places, and the corridors by mosaics filled with eight-ray stars showing geometric shapes, plants and birds. There are also wheels with the shape of chain, and wavy line.
The complex of Baptistirio is communicating with the big Basilica through a door, which opens to the east side of its wall, and with the little one through another door to the east side of its north space.

The font we can see is not unfortunately in good condition. It is built with stones and has marble inside and outside. Inside in the bottom is square, in the middle has eight corners and at the top had probably the shape of a cross. From this cross, we have the west side left today, where we can see two stairs 0,20 and 0,37 m. high. The top of the font is 0,22 m far from the floor. It is 0,22 m thick. Its depth was 0,82m.

Besides the Baptistirio, the complex has also other spaces. Through a deep corridor along the south side of the main temple, people could pass from the Ethrio to the right side room of “diakoniko” and the additional rooms next to the Iero. The diakoniko was a special room, where the people could leave the bread, wine, honey, candles (which are necessary for the ceremonies). These were transferred for the Communion to the Holy Table, which was in front of the Iero. The room that is next to the Iero was used as storage for the equipment of the temple.

Apart the Basilicas of Agios Stefanos, there are also in the north sides of mount Zini, the old Christianic Basilica of Kamari.

It has also three spaces. The middle space is separated from the others by two lines of ten columns each one. This middle space ends to a half-circle arch, at the east side. At the northeast corner of this temple there is an additional half-circle arch building. At the west side of the temple we see the Narthikas which communicates with the spaces with separate entrances. The front wall of the Narthikas is double. We can see first the inside wall and then the outside which was made to support the inside one. The outside one goes on to the south side of the temple, is the south outside wall of a corridor that goes along all the south side of the temple.

The floor is decorated by a multicolored mosaic in a triangle frame. The inlays are in round lines. . We can see mosaics also in the side spaces. There are four types of these mosaics. The three of them are purely geometrical. The fourth one has circles showing worsh

ip objects and symbols ( artoforia, fish, anchors etc). It is very impressive to see the double axe in circles, which is a well-known Mycenaean symbol and is never found in a Christian temple again. A stone with a sculptured cross on a circle having on its sides the letters A and Ω (the first and the last letter of the alphabet) and a plate with ancient inscription are very remarkable.

Apart these, there are lots of other monuments, smaller but not always in a good condition allover Kefalos. This fact shows that from the beginning of the fourth century there was a very flourishing and well-organized, pious Christian community in the area. These monuments are a very precious, cultural and spiritual inheritance for the people of Kefalos.

by: Archimandrite KONSTANTINOS MANIOTIS – Chief of the central church of Kefalos

Translated by Sissy Tsantsaraki<!–:–><!–:el–><h1></h1>
<h2>Η Βασιλική του Αγίου Στεφάνου</h2>
<h4>του Αρχιμανδρίτη Κωσταντίνου Μανώτη
Στις αρχές του 4ου μ.Χ. αιώνα, με το διάταγμα των Μεδιολάνων (313 μ.Χ.) η χριστιανική πίστη κηρύχτηκε ελεύθερη και ισότιμη με τις άλλες γνωστές τότε θρησκείες. Το κλίμα θριάμβου που επικράτησε στο χώρο της Εκκλησίας και οι νέες λατρευτικές και ποιμαντικές ανάγκες που προέκυψαν με τον εμπλουτισμό της λατρείας και την αθρόα προσέλευση πιστώνδημιούργησαν την ανάγκη νέων χώρων λατρείας. Έτσι έχουμε την ίδρυση των πρώτων μεγαλόπρεπων ναών, αρχικά στην Παλαιστίνη (από το Μ. Κων/νο και τη μητέρα του Αγ. Ελένη) και αργότερα σ’ όλο το τρίγωνο Αγίων Τόπων-Ρώμης-Κων/πολης, που ονομάστηκαν Βασιλικές.
<h1>Η ονομασία «Βασιλική» είναι μετάφραση του λατινικού όρου «basilica» επιθέτου που προσδιόριζε το ουσιαστικό porticus (=στοά, πόρτα, ναός). Αλλά το λατινικό επίθετο basilicus, a,urn (=βασιλικός, ή, όν) είναι μετάφραση του ελληνικού επιθέτου Βασιλική (Βασιλική εκκλησία). Συνεπώς από τους ελληνικούς όρους «Βασιλική εκκλησία» προήλθαν οι λατινικοί«basilicus porticus» και τελικά επικράτησε μόνο το επίθετο basilica -Βασιλική- που έγινε ουσιαστικό. Έτσι ο χώρος μέσα στον οποίο λατρευόταν ο Βασιλέας Χριστός ονομάστηκε σ’ ολόκληρο τον κόσμο Βασιλική (εκκλησία).</h1>
<h1>Τα κύρια χαρακτηριστικά του νέου αυτού τύπου ναού είναι η δρομική κάτοψη, ο άξονας δηλ. του μήκους, και η έξαρση του βάθους και του ύψους. Ο τύπος της Βασιλικής είναι εξέλιξη αρχιτεκτονική κτιρίων που προϋπήρχαν και πρέπει μάλλον να συσχετιστεί περισσότερο με τις ιουδαϊκές συναγωγές και με τα παλιά σπίτια συγκέντρωσης των Χριστιανών αλλά και με τα «Μαρτύρια» και τα νεκρικά παρεκκλήσια των κατακομβών.</h1>
<h1>Το νησί της Κω έχει (λόγω της θέσης του στο εσωτερικό του τριγώνου Παλαιστίνη-Ρώμη-Κων/πολη) να παρουσιάσει πλήθος από Παλαιοχριστιανικές Βασιλικές.</h1>
<h1>Απ’ όλες τις Βασιλικές που ανακαλύφτηκαν από την αρχαιολογική σκαπάνη στο νησί η μεγαλοπρεπέστερη και πιο άρτια διατηρημένη είναι η Βασιλική του Αγίου Στεφάνου, που βρίσκεται κοντά στον ισθμό της Κεφάλου, «εις γραφικωτάτην παρά την θάλασσαν (γήινην) γλώσσαν» κατά τον καθ. Αναστ. Κ. Ορλάνδο, ακριβώς απέναντι από τη νησίδα Καστρί. Στην πραγματικότητα πρόκειται για σύμπλεγμα δύο Βασιλικών που είναι χτισμένες πάνω σε βράχο και διατηρούνται σε άριστη κατάσταση (σχεδιάγραμμα).</h1>
<h1>Η αποκάλυψη τους οφείλεται στον Ιταλό καθηγητή Laurenzi και η ανοικοδόμηση τους υπολογίζεται μεταξύ του 469 και 554 μ.Χ., μεταξύ δηλ. των δύο μεγάλων καταστρεπτικών σεισμών που έπληξαν το νησί, από τους οποίους ο δεύτερος υπήρξε μοιραίος για το μνημείο.</h1>
<h1>Σύμφωνα με τον καθ. Ορλάνδο που μελέτησε το μνημείο η πρόσβαση σ' αυτό γινόταν κυρίως από τη θάλασσα αλλά και από την αμμώδη ξηρά.</h1>
<h1>Η νότια Βασιλική (φωτ. 16) διαστάσεων 22,85 χ 15,50 μ. είναι μεγαλύτερη και προγενέστερη της άλλης. Οι τοίχοι ολόκληρου του συγκροτήματος είναι κατασκευασμένοι από ντόπιο κοκκινωπό πωρόλιθο. Αν κρίνει κανείς από τα διασωθέντα θεμέλια της Βασιλικής πρέπει να υπήρχε κάποιος θολωτός πυλώνας που οδηγούσε στο «Αίθριο». «Αίθριο» (φωτ. 17)ονομάζεται η ορθογώνια αυλή μπροστά από την πρόσοψη της Βασιλικής που περιστοιχίζεται από γρανιτένιους κίονες (κολώνες) μερικοί από τους οποίους έχουν αναστηλωθεί. Το «Αίθριο»</h1>
<img src=”http://www.kefalos.com/images/AGIOS-STEFANOS-PLAN.gif” alt=”” width=”470″ height=”615″ align=”right” border=”0″ />εξυπηρετούσε πρακτικούς και κοινωνικούς σκοπούς, και πριν από τη διαμόρφωση του νάρθηκα, και λειτουργικούς. Στο κέντρο του «Αίθριου» υπάρχουν λείψανα περίοπτης φιάλης (βρύσης) που υπήρχε πάντα στις Βασιλικές προκειμένου να καλύπτονται οι ανάγκες των πιστών σε πόσιμο νερό αλλά και για την κάθαρση τη σωματική και ψυχική που γινόταν με το συμβολικό νήψιμο. Μετά τη διαδικασία της κάθαρσης οι πιστοί εισέρχονταν στο «Νάρθηκα» ενώ στο «Αίθριο» παρέμεναν οι κατηχούμενοι, οι «προσκλαίοντες» (αυτοί που τους είχε επιβληθεί εκκλησιαστικό επιτίμιο) και όσοι έπασχαν από φρενοβλάβεια (χειμαζόμενοι). Λόγω της έλλειψης χώρου το ορθογώνιο αίθριο της Βασιλικής του Αγίου Στεφάνου είναι τοποθετημένο πλαγιαστά. Επειδή το δάπεδο του αίθριου βρίσκεται εδώ σε χαμηλότερη στάθμη από το δάπεδο του νάρθηκα και του κυρίως ναού, η πρόσβαση σ’ αυτούς τους χώρους γινόταν με βαθμίδες (σκαλοπάτια) που είχαν λαξευθεί σ’ όλο το μήκος της ανατολικής πλευράς του αίθριου. 
Ανεβαίνοντας τα λαξευτά σκαλοπάτια ερχόμαστε στο νάρθηκα, που είναι στενός και επιμήκης χώρος με εγκάρσια διάταξη στον κύριο άξονα του κτιρίου. Επειδή οι πιστοί δεν έπρεπε να βλέπουν «απευθείας» όσα γίνονταν στο ιερό βήμα η είσοδος από το αίθριο στο νάρθηκα γίνονταν από τις δύο πλάγιες πόρτες που υπάρχουν. 
Στο κέντρο του δαπέδου του νάρθηκα υπάρχει ψηφιδωτή παράσταση δύο παγωνιών, στα κενά που σχηματίζονται μεταξύ κεντρικού κύκλου και του τετραγώνου που τον περιβάλλει, καθώς και παράσταση αετού με ανοιχτά φτερά στο κέντρο του πλέγματος που διακοσμεί τον παραπάνω κύκλο. Το όλο σύμπλεγμα συμπληρώνουν παραστάσεις πτηνών σε διάφορες στάσεις.
Αμέσως μετά το νάρθηκα ερχόμαστε μέσα από τις τρεις πύλες στον «Κυρίως ναό», στο χώρο δηλαδή που γίνονταν οι συγκεντρώσεις των πιστών για τη συμμετοχή τους στη θεία λατρεία. Στο δάπεδο της κεντρικής εισόδου υπάρχει ψηφιδωτή επιγραφή. 
Ο κυρίως ναός έχει σχήμα ορθογώνιο και καταλήγει στην αψίδα του Ιερού. Είναι τρίκλιτος, δηλ. έχει δύο κιονοστοιχίες οι οποίες τον διαιρούν σε τρία μέρη, τα κλίτη, από τα οποία το μεσαίο είναι πλατύτερο των δύο πλαγίων. Οι κίονες (κολώνες) είναι κατασκευασμένες από λευκό μάρμαρο και έχουν ιωνικά κιονόκρανα (φωτ. 20) με επίθυμα. Το κενό μεταξύ των κιόνων κλεινόταν κάτω με μαρμάρινες ανάγλυφες πλάκες (θωράκια) λείψανα των οποίων σώζονται και σήμερα. 
Το μεσαίο κλίτος ασφαλώς θα είχε μεγαλύτερο ύψος από τα δύο πλάγια, αφού αυτή η τεχνική ήταν συνηθισμένη προκειμένου να εξασφαλίζεται καλύτερος φωτισμός τόσο από τα παράθυρα των πλευρικών κλιτών όσο και από τα παράθυρα-φωταγωγούς του μεσαίου υπερυψωμένου κλίτους. Στο μέσο ή λίγο πλάγια του μεσαίου κλίτους υπήρχε μαρμάρινος άμβωνας του οποίου σώζεται μεγάλο κομμάτι με λαξευμένα σκαλοπάτια (φωτ. 21). Το δάπεδο του κυρίως ναού είναι διακοσμημένο με ψηφιδωτούς συμπλεκόμενους σηρικούς τροχούς.
Το «Ιερό Βήμα» ή «πρεσβυτέριο» χωρίζεται από τον κυρίως ναό με τα υπολείμματα του μαρμάρινου φράγματος (τέμπλου). Είναι ελαφρά υπερυψωμένο σε σχέση με τον κυρίως ναό, γιατί είναι χώρος προορισμένος για τον ιερό κλήρο. Στο κέντρο του Ιερού Βήματος βλέπουμε το μαρμάρινο απομεινάρι της «Αγίας Τράπεζας», που προφανώς είναι η κάτω πλάκα πάνω στην οποία στηρίζονταν τα τέσσερα πόδια της (κιονίσκοι). Είναι ορθογωνίου σχήματος με ανάγλυφο πλαίσιο στα πλάγια. 
Γύρω από την Αγία Τράπεζα σε σχήμα θεατροειδές βρίσκονται τα ίχνη του «Συνθρόνου». Είναι οι θέσεις των πρεσβυτέρων με τον Επίσκοπο στο κέντρο. Το σύνθρονο έχει μεγάλη σπουδαιότητα γιατί είναι το σύμβολο της κηρυκτικής, βασιλικής και ιερατικής ιδιότητας του Επισκόπου ο οποίος εικονίζει το Χριστό.
Με μια πόρτα που βρίσκεται στη βόρεια πλευρά του ναού, κοντά στο νάρθηκα περνάμε σε άλλη μικρότερη Βασιλική που ακουμπά στο βόρειο τοίχο της πρώτης. Είναι και αυτή τρίκλιτη, με τη διαφορά ότι οι κιονοστοιχίες που χωρίζουν τα κλίτη μεταξύ τους αποτελούνται από κίονες που εναλλάσσονται με πεσσούς (ορθογώνια κτιστά στηρίγματα).
Σε καλή κατάσταση έχει διατηρηθεί το σύνθρονο και τα θεμέλια του τέμπλου. Το δάπεδο είναι διακοσμημένο με ψηφιδωτές γεωμετρικές και φυτικές παραστάσεις. Ακριβώς πίσω από την κόγχη του ιερού της δεύτερης αυτής Βασιλικής και βορειοανατολικά του όλου συγκροτήματος βλέπουμε τα ερείπια του «Βαπτιστηρίου». Είναι ο χώρος που γίνονταν οι βαπτίσεις μετά την ολοκλήρωση της διαδικασίας της κατήχησης. Το σχήμα του είναι σχεδόν τετράγωνο με διαστάσεις εσωτερικά 10,55 x 9,45 μ. Το «φωτιστήριο» (ιδιαίτερος χώρος των βαπτίσεων) είναι επίσης τετράγωνο και περιβάλλεται από όλες τις πλευρές του από ορθογώνιους διαδρόμους με τους οποίους επικοινωνεί με τρεις πόρτες στη βόρεια, δυτική και νότια πλευρά του. Οι τοίχοι του φωτιστηρίου έχουν πλάτος 0,58 μ. Στις τέσσερις γωνίες του υπάρχουν τέσσερεις χτιστοί πεσσοί τετράγωνοι, με διαστάσεις 0,42 x 0,42 μ. που στήριζαν ασφαλώς τα τόξα του χτιστού χαμηλού ημισφαιρικού τρούλλου. Το δάπεδο του φωτιστηρίου καλύπτεται από μαρμάρινες πλάκες, ενώ τα δάπεδα των διαδρόμων που το περιβάλλουν καλύπτονται με ψηφιδωτές παραστάσεις οκτάκτινων αστεροειδών σχημάτων και μεταξύ τους υπάρχουν τετράγωνα ορθά και κατά κορυφή, που περιέχουν γεωμετρικές και φυτικές διακοσμήσεις ή πτηνά. Υπάρχουν επίσης σηρικοί τροχοί που διανθίζονται με σχήματα αλυσοειδούς ταινίας, τόξου της ίριδος και κυματοειδούς ταινίας. Το συγκρότημα του Βαπτιστηρίου επικοινωνεί άμεσα τόσο με τη μεγάλη Βασιλική με πόρτα που ανοίγει στο ανατολικό τμήμα του τοίχου της, όσο και με τη μικρότερη με άλλη πόρτα στην ανατολική πλευρά του βορείου κλίτους της.
Η κολυμβήθρα που βρίσκεται στο μέσο του φωτιστηρίου δε διατηρείται δυστυχώς σε καλή κατάσταση. Αυτή είναι χτισμένη με πέτρες και κορασάνι και έχει εσωτερικά και εξωτερικά μαρμάρινη επένδυση. Εσωτερικά στο κατώτερο τμήμα της έχει σχήμα τετραγώνου, στη μέση διαμορφώνεται οκταγωνική και στο πάνω τμήμα της ήταν πιθανώς σταυροειδής. Αυτού του υποτιθέμενου σταυρού διατηρείται το δυτικό σκέλος στο οποίο υπάρχουν δύο σκαλοπάτια ύψους 0,20 και 0,37 μ. Τα χείλη της κολυμβήθρας απέχουν από το δάπεδο κατά 0,22 μ. και το πάχος τους είναι 0,22 μ.. Το βάθος της ήταν 0,82 μ.
 
<a href=”http://kosrentals.gr/wp-content/uploads/agstef-ruins.jpg”><img class=”alignright size-medium wp-image-496″ title=”agstef-ruins” src=”http://kosrentals.gr/wp-content/uploads/agstef-ruins-300×225.jpg” alt=”” width=”300″ height=”225″ /></a>Εκτός από το Βαπτιστήριο το σύμπλεγμα διαθέτει και άλλους χώρους (προσκτίσματα). Έτσι, μέσα από ένα μακρύ διάδρομο σ’ όλο το μήκος της νότιας πλευράς του κυρίως ναού μπορούσε κανείς να περάσει από το αίθριο στο αμέσως δεξιά αψιδωτό διαμέρισμα του «διακονικού» και στα βοηθητικά διαμερίσματα που βρίσκονται πλάγια από το ιερό. Το διακονικό είναι το ιδιαίτερο διαμέρισμα στο οποίο τοποθετούσαν οι πιστοί τις προσφορές (άρτο, οίνο, μέλι, κερί κλπ.) από τις οποίες οι διάκονοι μετέφεραν τις απαραίτητες για τη Θ. Λειτουργία στην τράπεζα της προθέσεως η οποία υπήρχε μπροστά από το Ιερό Βήμα. Το διαμέρισμα που βρίσκεται δίπλα στο ιερό χρησίμευε προφανώς σαν σκευοφυλάκιο όπου φυλάσσονταν τα ιερά σκεύη και τα λατρευτικά αντικείμενα του ναού.
Εκτός από το συγκρότημα των Βασιλικών του Αγίου Στεφάνου υπάρχει στην περιοχή της Κεφάλου και συγκεκριμένα στους βόρειους πρόποδες του Ζηνιού, η παλαιοχριστιανική Βασιλική του Καμαρίου.Είναι και αυτή τρίκλιτη καθώς το κύριο (κεντρικό) κλίτος χωρίζεται από τα πλευρικά κλίτη με δύο κιονοστοιχίες των δέκα κιόνων η κάθε μία.• Αυτό το κεντρικό κλίτος καταλήγει στο ανατολικό άκρο σε ημικυκλική αψίδα. Στη βορειοανατολική γωνία αυτής της εκκλησίας εφάπτεται μια πρόσθετη ημικυκλική αψιδωτή κατασκευή. Στο δυτικό άκρο του ναού βρίσκεται ο «Νάρθηκας» με τον οποίο επικοινωνούν τα κλίτη με χωριστές εισόδους. Ο μπροστινός τοίχος του νάρθηκα είναι διπλός. Διακρίνεται ο πρωταρχικός τοίχος και ένας δεύτερος που κτίστηκε εξωτερικά για ενίσχυση του πρώτου. Αυτός ο εξωτερικός τοίχος που συνεχίζεται στη νότια πλευρά της Εκκλησίας αποτελεί το νότιο εξωτερικό τοίχο ενός διαδρόμου που πορεύεται σ’ όλο το μήκος της νότιας πλευράς του ναού.
Η διακόσμηση του δαπέδου του κεντρικού κλίτους αποτελείται από έναν πολύχρωμο ψηφιδωτό τάπητα που τον περιβάλλει τριζωνικό πλαίσιο. Οι ψηφίδες του μωσαϊκού διατάσσονται σε γραμμωτές δεσμίδες που διαγράφουν κύκλους με την ελικοειδή διαπλοκή τους (φωτ. 30). Ψηφιδωτά υπάρχουν και στα πλευρικά κλίτη. Οι τύποι των μωσαϊκών αυτών είναι τέσσερις. Οι τρεις απ’ αυτούς είναι αμιγώς γεωμετρικοί. Ο τέταρτος αποτελείται από κύκλους μέσα στους οποίους εικονίζονται λατρευτικά αντικείμενα και σύμβολα (αρτοφόρια, ψάρια, άγκυρες κ.ά.). Έκπληξη προκαλεί ο περικλεισμένος σε κύκλους διπλός πέλεκυς, που είναι γνωστό Μυκηναϊκό σύμβολο και παρόμοιο του δεν έχει βρεθεί σε χριστιανικό ναό. Αξιοσημείωτα ευρήματα είναι επίσης και μια πέτρα με ξαλεμένο πάνω σε κύκλο σταυρό από τα άκρα του οποίου κρέμονται τα γράμματα Α και Ω, καθώς και μια πλάκα με αρχαία επιγραφή.Η ύπαρξη αυτών των μνημείων καθώς και άλλων μικρών και όχι καλά διατηρημένων που είναι διάσπαρτα σ’ όλη την περιοχή της Κεφάλου δείχνουν ότι ήδη από τις αρχές του τετάρτου αιώνα μ.Χ. υπήρχε στην περιοχή οργανωμένη και ακμάζουσα χριστιανική κοινότητα διακρινόμενη για την ευσέβεια της. Τα μνημεία αυτά αποτελούν για τους σημερινούς Κεφαλιανούς μια πολύτιμη πολιτιστική και πνευματική παρακαταθήκη.
<h1>ΑΡΧΙΜ. ΚΩΝ/ΝΟΣ ΜΑΝΙΩΤΗΣ</h1>
<h1>Βιβλιογραφία:</h1>
<h1>1. Αντουράκης Γεώργιος : Χριστιανική Αρχαιολογία, Αθήνα 1987. </h1>
<h1>2. Ορλάνδος Αναστάσιος : Η Ξυλόστεγος Παλαιοχριστιανική Βασιλική της Μεσογειακής Λεκάνης, Τόμ. Α’ και Β’, Αθήνα 1952.</h1>
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3. Μητροπ. Κω Εμμανουήλ : Εκκλησία Κω Δωδεκανήσου, Τόμ. Α’, βιβλ. Δεύτερο, Αθήνα 1970.
4. Βολανάκης Ιωάν. : Τα παλαιοχριστιανικά Βαπιστήρια της Ελλάδος, Αθήνα 1976.
5. Balducci Hermes : Basiliche Protocristiane e Bizantine on Coo, Ρανία 1936.
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<h1>4. Βολανάκης Ιωάν. : Τα παλαιοχριστιανικά Βαπιστήρια της Ελλάδος, Αθήνα 1976.</h1>
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5. Balducci Hermes : Basiliche Protocristiane e Bizantine on Coo, Ρανία
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4. Kos Villages: Antimachia village
The village of Antimachia stands on a plateau in the middle of the island of Kos, near the airport.
The picturesque neighborhoods, the traditional houses and the few windmills are the villages main interest.
The Venetian Castle of Antimachia is also worth visiting, as it dominates the village and offers a magnificent view over the island of Kos.The little village of Mastichari belongs to the Municipality of Antimachia. It is built near the sea, offering idyllic beaches. Its small port has daily connection to Kalymnos and its taverns are offering fresh fish and excellent local specialties.
5. Kos Villages: Asomatos village
Asomatos is a small village next to Asfendiou, in the centre of the island, that gradually has become a neighborhood of Asfendiou. Totally untouristic and still keeping its traditional character, Asomatos has no tourist facilities. Its small stone houses and the paved streets emit an old charm and visitors feel the traditional vibe of Kos here.

The main church of Asomatos is the church of Agioi Asomati (meaning “saints with no bodies”), from where the village took its name. The surrounding region has much greenery and provides good trekking routes, if you love trekking and nature. The village is built on the lower part of Dikeos Mountain.

6. Kos Beaches: Camel Beach

Camel beach is located 34km southwest of Kos Town and 6 km before Kefalos. It is a fine sandy beach with pebbles and clean water. It is well-organized offering all the facilities needed, even a water sports center.

There are few accommodation options around this beach, which is less busy that other coasts in the region. There, it is mostly a place to relax among an impressive rocky surrounding. Few umbrellas and sun beds line Camel beach.
7. Kos Beaches: Kamari Beach

Kamari beach is located 38 km southwestern from Kos town and 2 km eastern from Kefalos. It is a beautiful beach organized with umbrellas, sun beds, accommodation and some taverns with fresh fish dishes.
The beach stretches for 5 kilometers and it is a pole of attraction for visitors due to its clean and crystal water. The surrounding region is rocky and has little greenery. The water is among the coldest in Kos and nearby there is a small port for yachts and fishing boats.

8. Kos Villages: Kardamena Village

The village of Kardamena is located at about 30 kilometers from the capital of Kos and at 5 kilometers from the airport.
It is a developed touristy resort spread along the beach that offers modern infrastructure as well as a lot of accommodations and touristy facilities.
The night life in Kardamena is rich and intense with a great abundance of bars and clubs.

9. Kos beashes: Kardamena Beach
The beach of Kardamena is located on the west coast of Kos, in front of the village of the same name. From the little port, daily excursions are available to and from Nissyros and Kos Town. In the area of this village one can visit the Temple of Apollo, the Ancient Theatre and the Christian Basilica, which are all very much worth seeing.
It starts at the villages port and stretches for over three kilometers. It has fine white sand and crystalline emerald waters.
Sun beds and umbrellas are available as well as various facilities and accommodations, since Kardamena is the second largest touristy resort of the island of Kos.
10. Kos villages: Kefalos Village
The village of Kefalos is located at 43 kilometers away from the city of Kos and is built on two levels.
Despite its high popularity due to its beach and its crystalline waters, the village has kept a lot of its authenticity, with its whitewashed houses and its narrow alleys.
Plenty of accommodations, taverns and shops can be found in Kefalos.
The old windmill overlooking the village, the ruins of the Basilica of Agios Stefanos and the picturesque islet of the same name standing east of the little port are some of the must-see in Kefalos.
11. Kos beaches: Kefalos Beach
The beach of Kefalos is lying in front of the settlement of the same name, 43 kilometers from the capital of the island. This beach has the coldest, yet truly crystalline waters of the island of Kos.
It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Kos and its most famous. Along the soft sand, many taverns are lining, offering fresh fish. Sun beds, umbrellas and water sports are available at Kefalos. The fine Monastery of Agios Nikolaos is located at a very short distance to Kefalos.
12. Kos beaches: Lagades Beach
Lagades beach is located 38 km from Kos town, near Kefalos village. It is partly organized with sun loungers and beach umbrellas, an ideal spot for people who love water sports. The turquoise waters and the white sand represent ideal scenery for every tourist. The taverns offer the best quality in Greek cuisine and mainly in the fish recipes. Lagades together with other fine beaches are all part of Kefalos Bay and they are all easily accessible from the port of Kefalos. Some less busy beaches are found in the region, which is rocky and has little vegetation.
13. Kos villages: Lagoudi Village
The beautiful small village is located 15 km south of Kos Town and 1 km west of Asfendiou. It is a mountainous village that has retained its rural character throughout centuries, surrounded by lush greenery and rich vegetation.
In Lagoudi, there is a beautiful church of Agios Ioannis Theologos which is built in the massive rocks whereas in a short distance from the village there is the small church of Prophet Elias standing in the top of a hill. There are a few rooms available for accommodation and good traditional taverns. If you visit Lagoudi the right period, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the local festivals.
14. Kos beaches;Lambi Beach
The beach of Lambi is located in the town of Kos and stretches for one kilometer, near the harbor of the capital.
It is an organized sandy beach with umbrellas and sun beds rentals as well as various restaurants, snack bars and cafes.
Accommodations are available in the area.
15. Kos beaches: Lambi Mylos Beach
This long sandy beach is located next to the town of the island. It stretches out over 1,000 meters and due to its contiguity with the town centre it is a pole of attraction for hundreds of people every day.
The beach has the privilege on being one of the places that can offer all the facilities and amenities required for a pleasant summer day. It took its name from a cafe bar called Mylos just above the beach.
16. Kos Beaches: Limnionas Beach

Located about 43 km from Kos Town, on the northwestern side of the island and close to the village of Kefalos, Limnionas is a nice beach to relax. Although it is organized with sun beds and umbrellas, there are not many facilities in the region, which makes it much quieter than the tourist-developed beaches of the southern side of Kos. The water is clean, while the coast is sandy surrounded by abrupt rocks. This bay is naturally protected from strong winds. It can be reached by private means through an asphalt road. Above the beach, there is a lovely tavern.
17. Kos beasches: Marmari Beach Kos
The endless sandy beach of Marmari is located in front of the coastal settlement of the same name, 5 kilometers from Pyli.
At Marmari, one can rent umbrellas, sun beds and water sports equipments.
Various taverns, restaurants, accommodations and cafes are waiting to welcome visitors in a fine surrounding.
18. Kos Beaches: Marmari Limnaria Beach
Marmari is located 15 km west of Kos town and 4 km from the picturesque village of Pyli. Marmari Limnaria is one of the many beaches of Marmari, this tourist resort of Kos Island. Well organized with sun beds and umbrellas, this beach is long and sandy. The water is clean and the coast is lined with hotels and taverns.
The strong wind that blows in summer makes this beach great for windsurfing and other sea sports. This is why many water spots centers have their base on this beach, offering windsurfing courses and renting the necessary equipment. Many less crowded coves are located around this beach, if you need more privacy.
19. Kos Villages: Mastichari village
This coastal settlement is located 22 km west of Kos and 3 km north of Antimahia. This is the second largest port of the island and ferries connect Kos with Kalymnos Island in summer.
The beach of Mastihari has developed rapidly into a tourist resort over the last years, providing many accommodation options, delicious taverns and water sports centers. Visitors can also swim in the sandy coves around Mastihari, while in close distance there is a fun water park. The wind in Mastihari creates the ideal environment for surfers to practice their favorite water sport. A few kilometers inland, there is the airport of Kos and the Castle of Antimachia.
20. Kos Beaches: Mastichari Beach
The beach of Mastichari lies in front of the village of the same name, at 3 kilometers north-west of Antimachia. Its white sand and its emerald waters will remind the visitor of an exotic place.
The little port of the village offers daily connections to the island of Kalymnos. Excellent taverns and accommodations are lining the beach or are scattered in the village and in the surrounding area.
21. Kos Beaches: Paradise Beach
Paradise is one of the most popular beaches in Kos, located 33 km from Kos Town and 7 km from Kefalos. Paradise beach stays true to its name creating an excellent combination of white sand and crystalline waters. It is worth visiting this beach for the famous air bubbles that come out from the shore formed by the volcano of the neighboring Nisyros Island. The beach is very well-organized with umbrellas and sundecks and a water sport center. It is high on accommodation options and there are numerous taverns serving fresh fish and Greek cuisine.
22. Kos Beaches: Polemi (or Magic) Beach
Polemi beach, also known as Exotic or Magic Beach, is located on the southwestern coast of the island. In front of the kiosk there are sun beds and straw parasols the naturists use. Beyond the sun beds there are no facilities and the wide sandy beach stretches away.
The beach is mostly used by nudists not worrying for the few rare cases who wear normal swimsuits. The beach is long, sandy, with clean water, while the surrounding region has little vegetation.
23. Kos Beaches: Psalidi Beach
This lovely beach is located 3,5 km east from Kos Town, on the road leading to Agios Fokas and Thermes. Psalidi is a long, clean and pebbled beach, well-organized with umbrellas and sundecks. For the more daring tourists, there are many water sports centers as well. Moreover, they have the opportunity to enjoy the Greek cuisine and fresh fish in the taverns situated nearby.
This coastal settlement had a rapid tourist development over the years due to its closeness to Kos Town. Many luxurious hotels can be found there and the beach is easily accessible by taxi, car or the public buses. For your romantic walks in the beach, Agios Fokas is the perfect place with an amazing sunset and a wonderful view.
24. Kos Beaches: Psalidi Ramira Beach
This is part of the large beach of Psalidi, one of the most popular resorts in Kos Island. This beach is located right in front of Ramira Hotel, from where it took its name.
It has small pebbles and shallow water, whereas there are some water sports options in the region and a volleyball court. The beach has umbrellas and sun beds, while in a walking distance there is Psalidi with many tourist facilities and taverns.
25. Kos Beaches: Psilos Gremos Beach
This is a large beach located in the gulf of Kefalos, 32 km south of Kos town. The coast is partly organized with umbrellas and sundecks, whereas in the other part there are no facilities provided and remains a totally secluded beach to enjoy some privacy.
Psilos Gremos is an extraordinary location for water sports enthusiasts, as there are a couple of water sports centers there. The surrounding region is rocky and has little vegetation. The view of the beach from the road above is pretty impressive. The name of the beach actually means “Steep Cliff”. There are few accommodation options in the region but most facilities are found in Kefalos.
26. Kos Villages: Pyli village
Pyli is located southwest of Kos Town, a few kilometers west of Asfendiou. Its Municipality includes the villages of Amaniou, Agios Georgios and Agios Nikolaos.
Surrounded by green fields, Pyli is full of traditional houses kept in a very good condition.
The ruins of the tomb of a hero of ancient Harmylos can be visited in Pyli as well as the Byzantine castle of the village, which preserves, within its walls, a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
27. Kos Beaches: Thermes Beach
Kos thermes are about 12 km away from town in order to get there, it is necessary to go across the East beach and pass Psalidi cape, as well as Agios Fokas cape.
They are easy to reach, not only because the roads are in good conditions –although they are little uphill- but also due to the parking facilities it counts on.
In case of not having a car, there are some bus lines that stop close to this location, and using bicycle is also a good possibility.
Once arriving, next to the parking area there are some places where travelers can sit and have a drink –usually very appreciated for those who arrived by bike. Once parked, the road that follows has a down direction, and takes just around a five-minute walk. As an additional interesting detail, the area is so secure that usually no one locks the bicycle, as stealing is very unusual
In addition to the occasional visitor facilities, this area counts on many available accommodation options, such as many comfortable hotels, as well as some motels and guest houses placed very near the thermes. Some of them offer certain extra strong points, like being close to bus stops and having private regular pools, among other attractive features.
Therefore, Kos thermes are also available for those who are interested in staying in this area, visited not only by foreigner tourists, but also people from Greece.
28. Kos Beaches: Tigaki Beach Tigaki is the nearest beach to the city of Kos, lying at 11 kilometers north of the town.
It is one of the most beautiful and most popular beaches of the island of Kos. It is a long white sandy beach which extends for over 10 kilometers, along with amazing crystalline shallow waters.
The beauty of the scenery is increased by the abundance of greenery and flowers. Various hotels, furnished apartments and rooms for rent, travel agencies, shops, bars, taverns and cafes are scattered around the surrounding area.
Various amenities are offered on the beach such as water sports, umbrellas and sun beds rentals.

29. Kos Villages: Kos Town
The town of Kos was founded in 366 BC, on the same site as the actual town, in the north-eastern part of the island.
It is a blend of ancient, medieval and modern architectural style, and is flooded with greenery.
The wide streets lined with trees create a relaxing and fine atmosphere in the town. The imposing Castle of the Knights of Saint John is standing on the eastern side of the harbor and is connected to the rest of the town by a bridge crossing the Palm Tree Avenue.
The Municipality of Kos is preserving the historic centre by trying to turn it into an exclusively pedestrian district. Various cafes, taverns, restaurants and shops can be found in Kos Town as well as a plethora of clubs and nightclubs, which transform the town into a hot spot during the night.
30. Kos Beaches: Town Beach Kos
This is a small beach in a walking distance from Kos Town, on the back side of Nerantzia Fortress. It is organized with sun beds, umbrellas and it is close to all amenities, however there are other prettier beaches to swim in Kos. It is also known as Zouroudi beach.
This is a suitable alternative if you are in Kos only for a short visit and you do not want to get away from the port. There are some hotels and taverns surround this beach, whose shore is pebbled and a bit deep.
31. Kos Villages: Zia village
The small charming village is located 17 km southeast of Kos in the mountainside of Dikeos, hidden among the plane trees and running waters. It is situated close to the Asfendiou village, just 2 km from the south. Zia is regarded as a pole of attraction for many visitors, tourists and Greek people.
The village offers a magnificent view from the mountain. Before arriving at the small settlement, you will have the chance to admire three churches that were built on the slopes of Dikeos Mountain. There are plenty of traditional shops and great taverns with an interesting variety of local dishes and Greek recipes in Zia. It is worth taking a walk around the village or a short walk towards the mountain, the highest point of Kos island. Zia is well known for its amazing sunset.

32. The Monastery of Agios Ioannis in Kos, Greece Dodecanese:Located on the southern side of Kos island, at the end of the asphalt road, there is the lovely Monastery of Agios Ioannis (Saint John). At a distance of 7 km from Kefalos, this monastery has been constructed in traditional architecture. The blue and white colors dominate there, as the church and the pave yard are painted in these colors.
Built on a hill above Kefalos, this monastery is surrounded by lush greenery and offers amazing view to the sea. A large plane tree throws its shadow on the church and some wooden benches have been put around the church for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery. The church inside is small but gives a solemn atmosphere. Beautiful icons and amazing frescoes decorate the walls, while a golden chandelier hangs from the roof. A few meters aside the church, there is an old, half-ruined bell tower. The monastery celebrates on August 29th and lots of pilgrims flock there on its feast day to pay their respects to the saint.
33. Στο μοναστήρι αυτό που βρίσκεται στα δυτικά της Κεφάλου στην πλαγιά του Θυμιανού σε μια ωραιότατη τοποθεσία με καταπληκτικό ηλιοβασίλεμα, γίνεται την παραμονή της εορτής του ( 28 Αυγούστου) μεγάλο πανηγύρι. Από τα παλαιότερα εξωκλήσια της περιοχής οφείλει κατά ένα μεγάλο μέρος την ύπαρξη του σήμερα στον κεφαλιανό μοναχό Χαράλαμπο Ρούσσο. Ο παραπάνω μοναχός οικοδόμησε οικίσκο στον περίβολο του ναού και με συνδρομές ίδρυσε το μικρό μοναστήρι επί μητροπολίτου Κω Ιωακείμ Βαξεβανίδη το 1917. Από τα αξιοθέατα του μοναστηριού είναι ο παμπάλαιος πλάτανος του, ενώ το ετοιμόρροπο καμπαναριό του, είναι μεγάλης αρχαιολογικής αξίας.
34. Ancient Market of Kos: What can reflect better the everyday lifestyle of a town that its own market? Ancient Agora, meaning ‘ancient market’, is an imposing excavation area where a number of temples, baths, and houses with remaining mosaics, columns, and other pieces of construction belonging to several periods have been found. So, in this case, the market has a lot more to reveal than a simple marketplace.
The Ancient Market is a large excavation area, with many interesting historical and architectural findings. For example, ancient Market has part of a wall made of large stones that counts on 80 meters long by 2.5 meters high. From the external side of this wall there used to begin an Eastern arm for the harbor protection. This arm was also taken advantage of in architectural terms, as it was used for supporting a colonnade of 50 meters length with a row of precincts. These columns date around the 4th and the 3rd centuries BC and they were partly restored during the Roman period.
As it was customary in old European constructions, the remains of the columns were then covered by a basilica during the early days of Christianity, which included a baptistery that was named ‘The seven steps of Agios Ioannis – or ‘St John’, as it is called in English in contemporary times. On the other hand, outside this wall, there were some buildings related to the harbor operation, some of them indispensable and others not so much, including some churches.
The ancient Market itself was a market that took advantage of its location next to the harbor, as it was ideal for trading and for general movement, to the point that Agora used to be centre of Kos. Some of the most recent findings are 80 meters wide by 300 meters length building, with a large stairway that still keeps its impressiveness, leading to an inner yard. There are also two restored columns that give the idea of a portico.
In addition, ancient Market has also some ruins of an Aphrodite Shrine, as well as a small temple -seemingly in the honor of Hercules- and a Christian Basilica dating from the 5th century; all of them facing north. Some other findings are the mosaic floors of some precincts, which date from the 3rd century BC and a statue of Hippocrates. There are also other interesting findings inside the above mentioned Aphrodite Temple. According to what has been established, the oldest parts of the ancient Market –which are many- date around the 3rd century BC approximately.
The ancient Market excavation area is placed in the eastern area of Kos, to south of the Kos castle. As an interesting piece of information for tourists, it is necessary to add that it offers a great panoramic view. In case of visiting the place late in the afternoon or in the first hours of the evening, it is good to know it is next to the street where Kos nightlife takes place, called ‘The street of the bars’. No doubt the visitor will take advantage of this strategic location!
35. The traditional House of Antimachia in Kos Dodecanese: In the centre of Antimachia village, just opposite the windmill, there is a restored house that depicts the traditional architecture of residences in this region. In particular, it has been built according to the architecture of early 20th century. For its construction, material of older houses has been used.
The house has an entrance named “good house”, a room where guests used to sit (tavlaos), a kitchen, a stable with agricultural tools and old kitchen tools and a room where women used to bake the bread and work the loom. In the yard, you can see a spring and a hencoop and in the back side of the house, there is the house of the pig.
Note that the main income of people in Kos till a few decades ago was coming from agriculture, cattle-breeding and fishing. Also more households were sufficient and has their own animals to get their products and meat.
36. The Castle of Antimachia in Kos: On a small hill above Antimachia village, to the south of Kos Town, there is a Venetian Castle that is known as the Castle of Antimachia. Its construction started in the 14th century by the Order of the Knights of Saint John but works were intensified in the end of the 15th century, as it can be seen at an inscription above the main gate which has the date 1494 engraved on it. This is about the same period of the construction of Nerantzia Castle in Kos Town.
The external fortifications of the Castle stand strong till today, although so many centuries have passed and they have suffered numerous attacks. The only entrance to the Castle is found on its northern side and it is protected by double gates. Above the entrance, there is the symbol of the Knights engraved in marble.Inside the Castle, there are not many things to see apart from two Venetian churches, the church of Agios Nikolaos dating from the 16th century and the church of Agia Paraskevi, built in early 18th century. Some remains of cisterns and houses also survive but there are not in very good state, as you can see only their foundations. From the Castle, you can have nice views of the surrounding area and the sea.
37. The Archaeological Museum of Kos Greece, Dodecanese:The Archeological Museum of Kos is housed in a neoclassical well-preserved building that was designed in 1935. That time the Italians were ruling Kos and all the Dodecanese islands. Situated in Eleftherias square, the museum stands out for its architecture. It hosts several findings which came to light during the excavations around Kos, Rhodes and smaller Dodecanese islands in the late 20th and the early 21st century. Most archeological findings cover a long period from the ancient till the post-Roman and Hellenistic times.
The most impressive exhibits include beautiful mosaics, statues from the ancient site oif Asklepeion, an extensive collection of prehistoric pottery and metallic objects, exhibits from a tomb of a young athlete dating back to the 3rd century B.C., coins, anaglyphs with various representations and many other items. Frequently the museum organizes educational programs for students and other groups in order to familiarize with the history of the island.
38. The Asklepieion in Kos: The Asklepieion is an ancient medical centre placed 4 km to the south-east of the town of Kos beyond Platani village. It dates from the first half of the 3rd century BC and it was built to honor the god of health and medicine, Asklepios, after the death of the famous ancient Greek physician, Hippocrates. The characteristic symbol of this institution was a snake, as Greeks honored this animal due to its ability in terms of selecting curative herbs; and it can still be seen. The physicians of this hospital were also priests and a sanctuary was available for everyone who wanted to pray. Despite the changes caused on the structure by the earthquakes, it is easy to tell apart the different rooms that were part of this building.
The first terrace is enclosed by a portico with the shape of a “Π” (Greek letter P), which leaves the south side open. This portico is said to hold a medical school, although this is not proven. On it east side there is a complex of Roman baths, dating from the 3rd century AD and with some porticoes as well, which used to have precincts for the patients and their families.
The second terrace holds the oldest structure of this construction, the ruins of an altar dating from the 4th century BC. To the south it can be found an area called “Avato”, where patients expected to see Asklepios apparition, in order to cure them during their dreams. To the left and the right of the altar, the ruins of two smaller temples lay as well. There are also some restored columns belonging to the Ionic Temple of Apollo (II Century BC).
Finally, on the third terrace, the remains of the Doric Temple of Asklepeion, dating from the 2nd century BC as well, can be seen. Asklepieion‘s centre also holds a church dedicated to Panagia Tarsou, built during the early Christian period. This period may have influenced the disuse of the Asklepieion in the sense that it was never reconstructed after the earthquake, as it has many idolatry elements. What remains from this church is just a capital with the initials ICXP, meaning ‘Jesus Christ’.
This location is basically the top of a verdant hill, from which the town of Kos, as well as its suburbs can be viewed. The nice calm and even joyful vibe that it transmits are enjoyed by tourists in our days, just like it happened with patients in the past centuries.
39. Kos Casa Romana: Casa Romana, which means the “Roman House”, is an important excavation area. This house shows the architectural style that dominated on the island in the Hellenistic and the Roman Times. It is a beautiful mansion with a style similar to the buildings found in Pompeii. It dates from the 2nd century and was built on the ruins of another house of the Hellenistic period.
Apart from its nice architecture, the house stands out due to its frescoes, the most remarkable of which depicts a panther attacking a bear, as well as its elaborated decoration and statues, which date from the late Hellenistic period and are currently exhibited at the Museum of Kos. This and the rest of the mosaics date from the 3rd century AD.
40. Regarding its internal distribution, Casa Romana has 36 rooms and a group of 3 atriums, which were supposed to provide light and air to the surrounding rooms. Each of these atriums has a small fountain in the middle. The first atrium used to host a small statue of Asklepius in the hallway. The second atrium has a floor decorated with dolphins and a sea-nymph. In addition, its walls are covered with marble. The third atrium is the biggest of all. Its floors are also covered with mosaic, while its walls have wall paintings.
Casa Romana can be found to the right of Grigoriou Pemptou Street, to the west of Kos town and very close to the Roman Odeon.
41. Kos folk museum: The picturesque island of Kos, also called the Garden of the Aegean, is known for the perfect way in which it balances nature and human development. Agriculture is still very much prevalent on the island and has been practiced throughout its interesting history.
Housed in a traditional house in the town of Kefalos, around 40 kilometers away from the town of Kos, is an interesting Folk museum. Displaying collections depicting the agricultural life of people on the island through history, the museum has an interesting and unique collection. The collection includes a lot of traditional artifacts such as embroideries, intricate and stunning woven tapestries and silks.
Also included are various agricultural tools employed by people at particular time frames in history. Preserved with great care, the items are displayed in a magnificent manner and provide a glimpse into the life of people during various historical periods. A definite must visit for enthusiasts and also all visitors who enjoy traveling back in time.
42. The plane tree of Hippocrates in Kos: In the centre of Kos island in front of the Castle of Knights stands a huge old plane tree, known as the ‘Hippocrates plane tree’.According to what Kos inhabitants say, the Hippocrates plane tree was planted by this famous Greek physician, who used its shade to teach his students in this place. As the tree is 500 years old, it is obviously not the one that Hippocrates planted, since he lived around the 5th century BC. Therefore, it is said to be descendant of that one.
This plane tree has a perimeter of twelve meters, which gave it the reputation of being the largest in Europe. Kos’ authorities have taken some measures from a long time ago in order to preserve it. A short surrounding wall with a metal railing prevents it from extending excessively and keeps people in proper distance. The wall has Turkish ornaments on one side of this wall, while on the other there is a historic white engraved tap in Arabic language, put by a Turkish governor. Water can be taken from it, even in our days. The tree has made history around the world, since some of its cuttings or seeds went to several destinations as gifts. For example, to the grounds surrounding the National Library of Medicine in the United States, in which its seeds have been planted in 1961. The Department of Medical Genetics at the University of Glasgow, the Michigan Medical School, and the Sydney’s School of Rural Health in Australia are just a few examples of the many institutions that hold derivations of the Hippocrates plane tree. In the case of the Medical Association of Kos it even presented to its president a gavel made from the tree’s wood, in 1954.
During summer, there are also some events related to Hippocrates plane tree that tourists along with local people, usually enjoy. On September the 5th, there is a tradition for housewives making two wreathes, one with old leaves, and the other with new ones. The old one must be taken into the sea, while the new one has to be put on the shore. This one symbolizes the beginning of the year, and must be hold until forty waves lap it.
Once it is done, housewives come back to the tree with the wreath, holding some pebbles and sea water in pannikins while they grab the tree, which supposedly assure them health and a long life. Once at home again, the ritual continues, as the wreath must be put on some religious icons, and sprinkle them with the rest of the sea water.
Whether it comes to historic value or summer activities, the stunning Hippocrates plane tree deserves to be maintained by locals along time, and visited by tourists who appreciate its cultural legacy.
43. The islet of Kastri in Kos: Right opposite the beach of Kefalos, on the southern side of Kos Island, there is a tiny islet called Kastri. The landscape of this islet is rocky and barren, while there is only little vegetation. A huge rock stands on one side of the islet and on top of this rock; there are the remains of an old castle that used to guard the bay from enemies and pirates.
On the other side of the islet, there is a small chapel in blue and white colors dedicated to Saint Nicolas, the protector of sailormen. Kastri islet can be reached by swimming from Kefalos beach.
44. Castle of the Knights: The castle of the Knights of Saint John on Kos, was constructed with local stone and with the remains of previous constructions and buildings. It still shows a number of blazons on the masonry, some columns, bases and architraves from the ruins of the old city. It was built during the occupation of the Knights, which lanted for over two hundred years.
This piece of architecture and construction engineering amazes visitors by the sight of a stone bridge that used to link that area of Kos – which used to be an island – with the main land. Today is called “Phoinikon”, which means palm trees.After going over the bridge, visitors see the stone two-precinct castle. It’s awesome four interior towers are circular and are located in the four corners. The South-eastern precinct – the largest – includes the tower on the south and still has gun ports, battlements and bastions on all the corners. There is a drawbridge communicating both precincts over the large moat between them. The construction took several years, and it dates between the years 1380 – 1514.
The interior precinct seems to be the oldest part, built in the times of the ruthless attacks of Sultan Bayazit. The other precinct, in the exterior area, dates from 1495 and was subsequently built by Grand Master D’ Aubusson, Grand Master D’Ambroise, and then finished in 1514 by Del Carreto.
The oldest tower, the one on the left of the drawbridge, still shows the blazons of Grand Master De Milly (1454 – 1461), and Grand Master De Lastic (1437 – 1454) Since the construction of the Knight’s Castle took about 130 years, the influence of the different architecture styles is apparent, as it is still possible to see a frieze depicting a number of garlands and masks from Hellenistic times contrasting with the oblique basalt columns on the gates’ ceiling – known as Carmadino gate – dating from the Christian times of Limenos Basilica.
The museum of the Castle of the Knights, located in the Northern area between both precincts, still shows several old inscriptions, sculptures and altars. The museum building itself was restored by the Italians and used to be the knight’s warehouse.
45. The Roman Odeon of Kos: The ancient Odeon found at Kos was built by the Romans around the 2nd and the 3rd centuries. It was found in the early 20th century along with the Gymnasium and the Roman baths, all of them in general good condition. These constructions are placed on the east and west of the Casa Romana, which is part of the Ancient Town and its several excavation areas. One of the main advantages of this complex, is that it concentrates many important places to the point that they can be comfortably visited during just one walk, without having to travel across distant points and without wasting time or spending money.
46. Regarding the Roman Odeon, although it has been restored, its first nine rows of seats are still the original marble ones that were occupied the important citizens of the time. After a landing, the Odeon has other five rows of seats made of granite, destined for regular people. It currently has a total number of 18 rows of seats. Some other parts that were also found in good condition were the floor, the wings, and the orchestra pit.
In addition, several statues have been discovered as well.
Faithful to their tradition and ideology, the Romans built the Odeon at Kos, as well as some others across their Empire. In fact, their famous amphitheatres were the truly centers of entertaining in Rome, being the Coliseum the largest one, able to seat a total of 50.000 people. Basically, people went to the amphitheatres like the Odeon to see fights between slaves, criminals, prisoners of war, and sometimes between them and wild animals. This tradition began with the idea of entertaining funerals, and consisted of one man fighting another.
However, there were so many people that crowded together to watch these fights that it was necessary to build some special places to hold them. In fact, this became so popular that there used to be many schools offering special training to turn ordinary men into Gladiators. Of course, this was in part used by the Romans as a distraction in order to keep people happy and avoid them to confront them in political terms.
Although the Romans usually receive the credits for these
kinds of inventions, they were highly influenced by one of their dominated nations: the Greek, from which they took many tips; for example in terms of light and sound at theatre plays. For these occasions, the Greeks built special precincts with semi-circular rows of sittings, where the actors would perform outdoors. They were very related to this type of art, as they were the pioneers of the tragedy concept, elaborating intricate myths that were expressed in many tales.
Therefore, in frame of the rich cultural exchange that Rome and Greece shared, Romans took many important facts of Greek culture like the ones just mentioned, and used them for their benefit. The available remains of these times in our days are the ruins of these places, such as the Roman Odeon at Kos, which deserves to be explored and appreciated as a living piece of History that captured the ancient splendour, and kept itself in very good conditions.
47. The Waterpark of Kos: On the island of Kos, close to Mastihari village, you will find an area to relax and spend some amusing hours: the Waterpark Lido. This amazing recreation park was constructed in 2005 and expands in an area of 75,000 sq. m. Its aim is to attract more and more tourists on the island and to give them options on how to have the most of fun. It usually opens in early April and closes in late October, so it works only during high season. The Waterpark Lido of Kos includes many water sports in its premises for both young and adults. Among its games, we include the Lazy River, the Wave Pool, the Giant Slide, the Black Hole, the Hydro Tube and many others In the water park, there are also restaurants, snack bars and cafeterias to offer you whatever you may need during the day.
48. Kos White Stone Cave (“Aspri Petra” Cave):
Tourists spending their holidays in Kefalos are usually surprised by the multiplicity of sites of interest of those places – a variety of restaurants, the small but cosy night clubs, the archaeological sites, the isolated beaches, and wild places like the Cave of Aspri Petra –otherwise “White Stone”.
Among the traditional sights in the area near Kefalos –such as the old chapels on Mount Dikaios, or the castle ruins at old Pyli, the Aspri Petra Cave in Kefalos (or Cave of White Stone) is really outstanding becaue of its natural beauty. Located beyond Palatia area towards Zini, these caves have a historical relevance as their exploration by expert speleologists brought to light to a number of findings dating from the Neolithic Age and beyond.
The prehistoric findings proved that Kos has been inhabited since the Bronze Era, between the years 2900 and 2100 BC. However, speleologist’s opinions differ regarding its formation process.
Some experts state that the corrosive activity of streams was responsible for enlarging their channels and that process may have taken a fundamental role in cave formation, as water, sand and pebbles can be very erosive with the passing of time. Although the theory may sound reasonable, some other experts claim that it is difficult to understand how that corrosive process would start an initial point or passage where it was not previously present in the rock itself.
What is certain is that white stones are usually made of granite, and have been rather appreciated along times for a variety of reasons – in ancient times a white stone would serve for monumental purposes or as an admission token or ticket to public shows.
The fact that the Aspri Petra Cave near Kefalos is, in a way, hidden from the general public’s sight was a natural way of preservation, as the site could have run out of white stone if it had been used as a source of gravel or for covering buildings’ facades.
The initial excavations of the place were under the supervision of Alessandro Della Sefa in 1922, who was the Director of the Italian Archaeological School in Athens. He came to the conclusion that Aspri Petra Cave was one of the most important excavations in connection with Prehistoric times. The findings placed the cave close to the period ranging from the Neolithic Age and the very beginning of the Bronze Era, about the year 3000 BC.
The importance of the place goes beyond the Prehistoric Age, as it also provided with human evidence of later periods. That is the reason why the Cave of White Stone is considered as one of the oldest archaeological monuments on Kos. A number of pots made of clay were found, which confirmed the worship of the gods that continued until the end of the Roman Empire.
The cave of Aspri Petra (White Rock) located about 9 Klm South West of Kefalos village, at the South slop of Zini mountain. The first existence of life in Kefalos found in the cave of the Aspri Petra (White Rock) who is also the first in the whole island of Kos, goes back to Neolithic times. He brought to light by the excavations of archaeologists Italian Alessandro Delia Seta and Doro Levi in 1922. Referring to the fact that Hatzivassiliou, points out that the island of Kos discovered significant findings from the prehistoric period. Indeed accurately identifies and date of excavation 3-17 June 1922, and based on the relevant post Italian magazine describes the findings: “It transpired that over a clay layer, which corresponded to a very ancient human fossil, which contained fragments of pottery Neolithic cave stretched containers dry and compact layers, which allowed t<a href=”http://kosrentals.gr/?attachment_id=289″ rel=”attachment wp-att-289″><img class=”alignright size-medium wp-image-289″ title=”AspriPetra060801_13″ src=”http://kefalos.kosrentals.com/wp-content/uploads/AspriPetra060801_13-300×225.jpg” alt=”” width=”300″ height=”225″ /></a>he use of a continuous development of human life. Noteworthy was the presence of oval pits with millstones. The outbreak, which consisted of several layers tefrochroa the same time, however, had several pieces of pottery, bonded, Neolithic, rough or polished rod-shaped, black, red, gray and brown. Among them there was only one carved clay container. The forms and dimensions of the vessels were varied, with the predominant type of toxoid rounded handles, while scarce weapons, which consisted of a few blades and ‘sharp cores of obsidian stone (volcanic stone) we know that it came from the island Giali near Nisyros, and grooming items. Finally, the remains of food, found in the cave, revealed a people devoted to grazing animals. The Italian archaeologist L. Morricone has argued that the findings of the cave of the Aspri Petra (White Rock) does not belong to the Neolithic period, but the first early Bronze Age, was identified as Pre Hellenic Era and placed between 2,900 and 2,100 BC. The cave of the Aspri Petra (White Rock) used in the Geometric period as a place of worship rural deities. Finding a few cups Geometric style, with peculiar motifs taken from Attica and Viotia shows the connection of the form of geometric shapes of Kos respectively of those areas, says Hatzivassiliou adopting the positions of the Italian archaeologist As Doro Levi. As rural place of worship deities the Aspri Petra (White Rock) continues to exist until the Roman period. Also found a crude votive document, which was dedicated to the deities worshiped in Hellenistic times, and which must be Pan, the Nymphs and some “kourotrophos” (nanny), as evidenced by the small children’s clay figures in squatting position. The types of clay are dated the 4th to 3rd century BC century. Found in the cave even votive candles of Roman period.
Η πρώτη ύπαρξη ζωής στην Κέφαλο, στη σπηλιά της Άσπρης Πέτρας που είναι ταυτόχρονα και η πρώτη σ’ ολόκληρο το νησί της Κω ανάγεται στη Νεολιθική εποχή. Την έφερε στο φως η αρχαιολογική σκαπάνη των Ιταλών αρχαιολόγων Alessandro Delia Seta και Doro Levi το 1922. Αναφερόμενος ο Χατζηβασιλείου στο γεγονός, επισημαίνει ότι στο νησί της Κω ανακαλύφτηκαν σημαντικά ευρήματα της προϊστορικής περιόδου. Προσδιορίζει μάλιστα με ακρίβεια και την ημερομηνία της ανασκαφής 3-17 Ιουνίου 1922, και στηριζόμενος σε σχετικό δημοσίευμα Ιταλικού περιοδικού περιγράφει τα ευρήματα: «Διαπιστώθηκε τότε ότι πάνω από ένα πρώτο αργιλικό στρώμα, που αντιστοιχούσε σ’ ένα αρχαιότατο ανθρώπινο απολίθωμα, που περιείχε θραύσματα πήλινων νεολιθικών δοχείων απλώνονταν στη σπηλιά ξερά και συμπαγή στρώματα, που επέτρεψαν τη χρήση της για μια συνεχή ανάπτυξη της ανθρώπινης ζωής. Αξιοσημείωτη ήταν η παρουσία λάκκων με ωοειδείς μυλόπετρες. Η εστία, που την αποτελούσαν διάφορα τεφρόχροα στρώματα της ίδιας όμως εποχής, είχε πολλά κομμάτια αγγείων, που συγκολλήθηκαν, νεολιθικής εποχής, ακατέργαστα ή γυαλισμένα σε σχήμα ραβδιού, χρώματος μαύρου, κόκκινου, γκρίζου και καστανού.Ανάμεσα σ’ αυτά υπήρχε μονάχα ένα σκαλισμένο πήλινο δοχείο. Οι μορφές και οι διαστάσεις των αγγείων ήταν ποικίλες, με κυρίαρχο τον τύπο των στρογγυλεμένων τοξοειδών λαβών, ενώ αντίθετα σπάνιζαν τα όπλα, που αποτελούνταν από λίγες λεπίδες κι’ από αιχμηρούς πυρήνες οψιδιανού λίθου (ηφαιστειογενούς πέτρας) που ξέρουμε ότι προερχόταν από το νησί Γυαλί κοντά στη Νίσυρο, καθώς και τα αντικείμενα καλλωπισμού. Τέλος τα υπολείμματα των τροφών, που βρέθηκαν στη σπηλιά, φανέρωναν ένα λαό αφοσιωμένο στη βοσκή ζώων». Ο Ιταλός αρχαιολόγος L. Morricone υποστήριξε ότι τα ευρήματα της σπηλιάς της Ασπρης Πέτρας δεν ανήκουν στη νεολιθική εποχή, αλλά στην πρώτη πρώιμη εποχή του χαλκού, αυτή που χαρακτηρίζεται ως πρωτοελλαδική και τοποθετείται μεταξύ του 2.900 και 2.100 π.Χ.2<img src=”http://kosrentals.com/images/images/060802%20aspripetra%20(11).jpg” alt=”” border=”0″ />
 Η σπηλιά της Άσπρης Πέτρας χρησιμοποιείται στη γεωμετρική εποχή, ως χώρος λατρείας αγροτικών θεοτήτων. Η εύρεση μερικών κυπέλλων γεωμετρικού ρυθμού, με ιδιόρρυθμα διακοσμητικά θέματα παρμένα από την Αττική και τη Βοιωτία μαρτυρεί τη σύνδεση της μορφής των γεωμετρικών σχημάτων της Κω με τ’ αντίστοιχα εκείνων των περιοχών, υποστηρίζει ο Χατζηβασιλείου υιοθετώντας τις θέσεις του Ιταλού αρχαιολόγου Doro Levi.3 Ως χώρος λατρείας αγροτικών θεοτήτων συνεχίζει η Άσπρης Πέτρα να υπάρχει μέχρι τα Ρωμαϊκά χρόνια. Βρέθηκε άλλωστε ένας χονδροειδής αναθηματικός παραστάτης, που είχε αφιερωθεί στις θεότητες που λατρεύονταν κατά την ελληνιστική εποχή, και οι οποίες πρέπει να είναι ο Παν, οι Νύμφες και κάποια κουροτρόφος, όπως μαρτυρούν οι μικρές παιδικές πήλινες μορφές σε θέση οκλαδόν. Οι πήλινοι αυτοί τύποι χρονολογούνται τον 4ο-3ο π.Χ. αιώνα. Βρέθηκαν ακόμα στη σπηλιά αναθηματικά λυχναράκια ρωμαϊκής περιόδου.
49. Kefalos

Kefalos is a purpose-built holiday resort with a laid-back atmosphere situated in the south west of the island of Kos. It is surrounded by spectacular scenery and sits beneath the old town of Kefalos, from which it takes its name. The resort has plenty of good restaurants and a couple of small nightclubs, but is mainly geared for tourists looking for a quiet holiday.
50. Holiday Shopping
Kefalos itself is dotted with the usual souvenir shops geared towards holidaymakers and grocery stores, but more seasoned shoppers usually find themselves heading to Kardamena or the very cosmopolitan Kos Town where there is a much larger variety of shops, markets and boutiques to choose from, and bargain hunters can buy anything from homemade jams and honeys to expensive hand crafted jewellery and trinkets.
51. Restaurants
Kefalos boasts some of Kos’s best restaurants with holidaymakers frequenting the Aussie Barbeque for mouth-watering steaks, Rainbow Taverna for authentic Greek hospitality and its famous barbecue chicken, Sebastian’s, Captain John’s, and Argo. Antonio’s Taverna has earned itself quite a reputation as one of the finest eateries in Kefalos, situated on the beach behind Sacallis Inn Hotel.
52. Nightlife
Kefalos is not as well known for its nightlife as other Greek holiday resorts, but it is by no means at all boring. Popeye’s Bar is excellent with friendly staff and is by far one of the most popular places to head for a pint or two. Players Lounge serves delicious quality cocktails with great music while Sydney Bar is the place to go for live music, where guests can enjoy a meal and sip on their favourite beverage while watching local artists perform on stage. There are also a number of tavernas that offer low-key entertainment.
53. Holiday Activities
The beach in Kefalos is a mix of sand and shingle and is ideal for lazy holidays in the sun. The sea is crystal clear and warm making it well suited for all the watersports that can be arranged here. Some of the best beaches in Kos are nearby including Paradise Beach. There are fascinating historical sites scattered around the island, particularly in the capital of Kos Town, 90 minutes away. So close that you can swim to it is the Agios Nikolas Monastery. Further afield, boat tours can be arranged to the spectacular volcanic island of Nisyros and to Rhodes (though be aware the journey takes almost three hours).
54. Any Negatives?The shingle beach in Kefalos can be very hard on your feet. Make sure you have good sandals for the beach and even swimming shoes.
55. Kefalos, Kos Island
Built on a hill at the western part of the island, Kefalos is a beautiful small town, situated at a distance of 40 kilometers southwestern to the town of Kos. In antiquity it was the capital city of the island; today it counts some 2.500 permanent residents. The town is built upon a hill, with the houses clung one to another and narrow streets, quite characteristic features of the architecture of the islands, which make strolling around a very interesting and fascinating experience. There are several things worth seeing in Kefalos: the «traditional house», which in fact is a folk museum, presenting the agricultural life of the village in past times. Beside the traditional house, you will see the traditional windmill, which complete the image of the way of living of the past. Finally, don’t miss to visit the ruins of the old castle, just off the main settlement. At Kamari, the port of the town, some 1 kilometer at the East, a marina is available for yachts and small boats, offering facilities for mooring and supply. Here, it is worth seeing the Early Christian basilicas of Aghios Stefanos, dating back to the 5th century; there are preserved parts of the mosaic decoration as well as remnants of the sculpture decoration of the churches.
In short distance across, quite close to the coast, there is the islet of Kastri with the small church of Aghios Nicolaos, the protector of seamen.
If you feel like visiting the area, you may drive to the nearby site of Palatia, at a distance of 3 kilometers southern to Kefalos, where you will see the ruins of «Astypalaea», as it was the name of the ancient capital of the island. The ruins of a temple of Demeter, the godess of agriculture, dated to the 5th century b.C., along with the remnants of a temple dedicated to Aesculapius, of another Doric temple and of a theater of the Hellenistic period is what is visible today. Within the archaeological site, upon a hill you may also visit the church dedicated to Virgin Mary; from here you will have an excellent view of Kefalos and of the sea below. At Zini, some 1-2 kilometers southern to Palatia, it is found the small church of Panaghia Ziniotissa (Virgin Mary), with excellent view of the sea. Close to the church you may visit the cave of «Aspri Trypa» («white hole»), where archaeological excavations have brought to light several finds of the Neolithic period, but also of recent times.
It is worth visiting the Holy Monastery of Aghios Ioannis (St. John) at a distance of 7 kilometers southern to Kefalos. The most interesting sight seeing here is the perennial plane tree, covering almost totally the small church and reaching even the nearby bell tower.
Another place to go for its wonderful view of the sea, is the small church of Aghios Mamas, built near the ruins of the homonymous old one; the church is found at a distance of 11 kilometers southern to Kefalos.
At the North, some 5 kilometers far from Kefalos, you may visit the small cove of Limnionas, with a small port, a shelter for the small fishing and tourist boats in case of rough sea.
Your exploration of the area is not complete if you don’t visit the remote small church of Aghios Theologos, very close to the sea, within an area with small coves and rocky beaches. If you overcome the problem of the bade road ( some 5 kilometers of dirt track), not only you will see the cute church, but you will also enjoy some nice, remote beaches, where you will meet few people, or you will be alone. Several hotels of all categories are available for accommodation, both in Kefalos and in the broader area up to the coast.
Food is good, both in the sea front taverns and in the inland ones. Don’t miss to taste the local sweets, above all those made with the famous local honey.
Several beaches around are nice for swimming. Apart from Kamari, you may enjoy swimming at the rest of the beaches of Kefalos Bay, as Chryssi Akti («golden coast»), Polemi, Sun beach, Xerokambos, Langades, Paradissos and Camela. Also you may go northwards to the beach of Limnionas, or to Aghios Theologos at the western coast of the area.
If you are at Kefalos in July or August, don’t miss the local feasts («panighyri») on the 26th of July in honor of Aghia Paraskevi, on the 15th of August, celebrating the Assumption of Virgin Mary and on the 29th of August in honor of Aghios Ioannis (St. John). In October it is organized the «tour of Kefalos» and during the Carnival in February or March, the locals and the few tourists have the chance to have fun at the local Carnival feast.
In case of health problems a local Medical Center is available at the town, where you will also find a Police Station.
Access from the town of Kos (40 kilometers far away) is possible with public bus, running frequently, as well as by rented or private cars and motorbikes.

56. TO DO
57. Fishing Trip – The Katerina Boat trip, Maria boat,
58. Quad bikes -Definately hire a quad to see the island
59. Kefalos Old Town – only 1.5 Km from the harbor, but all up hill. Therein lies it’s advantage – the best views of Kamari Bay and the Kefalos beach resort.
60. Bubble & Paradise Beach – occasional stream of bubbles coming up from the sea bed. A great sandy beach, but it did seem a bit busy and tightly packed with sun loungers. There’s a good water sports. You can get here by coach, the Kos bus, or taxi.
61. Zia Sunset – Nevertheless, fantastic views
62. The Island of Nisyros & its volcano – Magical village of Nisyros which has some wonderful back streets and buildings. The bus takes you the 17 Km up the mountain via a succession of hair-pin bends with some fantastic views. You drop down into the valley of the volcano. The smells from the sculpture are great, and not too overpowering. Steam and smells come out from various pot holes on the crater surface – it’s unique.

Kefalos Beach – Amazing crystal clear wather. There are a lot of different types of fish in the water and using a scuba set you can almost touch them – fantastic! The beach shelves are gently and there is no sea weed. On the down side, the sand is coarse and interspersed with pebbly sections. This stretch of water is very popular with sail boarders.

Day trip to Turkey – .25 min on boat till Bodrum. Very nice views .
63. KEFALOS is an excellent choice of accommodation for those looking for a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. The resort of KOS with the most attractive beaches is only 15 minutes from the airport. <a href=”action.htm”>It’s a heaven for those who want to enjoy the sea and all the water sports at 17 Kilometers of clean, unspoiled beaches with fine golden sand</a>. The wide variety of traditional fish-taverns, restaurants and bars satisfies the Visitors needs for fresh food and entertainment. The majority of the Accommodations in Kefalos are newly build hotels, studios and apartments family operated just 50 to 200 m from the beach at prices starting from 25 Euro per day per studio or room.
64. Agios Nickolaos chapel (Saint Nickolas) on the picturesque Kastri (small castle) little island, located in Kefalos Bay is one of the most beautiful spots of Greece and the landmark of Kos island. The chapel is the one and only building on the island. Build from “Sevofylaka Antonio (Droulia)”. Its only 70 m from the shallow beach of Agios Stefanos and very easy accessible from the beach. It was connected with the shore in ancient times and there are still some ruins from old buildings at the south. Also there many ruins from old houses on the bottom of the sea at the west part of the island. Its a very good attraction for snorkeling lovers…..
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