A Visit to Asklepion- The Home of Medicine
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Port
Kos, Greece
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$99.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Start your wellness experience with a visit to Asklepion -- the most prominent archaeological site on the island of Kos. In ancient times, it was a temple to Asklepios (the god of medicine and health) as well as a healing resort. This is where Hippocrates, the founding father of modern medicine, developed and practiced many of healing methods that are still used today.
Along the way, you'll get a good look at the Odeon -- the old Roman theatre that was unearthed in 1929. On the opposite side of the Odeon is the western excavation site, said to be an ancient gymnasium. You can visit the Nymphaeum and Xysto ruins from the Hellenistic and Roman eras here.
An interesting twist to your day out is a stop is an olive oil press. Learn how olive oil is produced and sample this quintessentially Mediterranean heart-healthy treat.
Wine tasting is also on the agenda with a visit to a nearby winery.
As you return to the ship, you'll stop at the plane tree of Hippocrates. This landmark tree takes its name from the local lore that says that Hippocrates taught his medical students in the shade of the tree. Arborists believe the tree is only 500 or so years old, making a myth of the story. What do you think?