Tree of Hippocrates
Legendary plane tree in Kos Town, where Hippocrates is said to have taught medicine. A free, historically significant landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Tree of Hippocrates
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Legendary plane tree in Kos Town, where Hippocrates is said to have taught medicine. A free, historically significant landmark.
"It's free to visit and hugely consequential in world history. Visit!! "
Free to Visit! 💰
Enjoy this significant historical landmark without any admission fee. A great value stop!
Combine with Castle Visit 🏛️
It's conveniently located near Neratzia Castle and the harbor, making it easy to explore multiple sites.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ancient Plane Tree
Kos Town
Legendary plane tree where Hippocrates is said to have taught medicine. A symbol of ancient wisdom and healing.
Statue of Hippocrates
Near the Tree
A prominent statue honoring the Father of Medicine, a fitting tribute near his legendary teaching spot.
Views of the Bay
Adjacent to the Tree
Enjoy pleasant views of the bay area, offering a tranquil moment amidst historical exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Legend
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free to Visit! 💰
Enjoy this significant historical landmark without any admission fee. A great value stop!
Combine with Castle Visit 🏛️
It's conveniently located near Neratzia Castle and the harbor, making it easy to explore multiple sites.
Imagine the History 📚
The current tree is a descendant, but let your imagination fill in the gaps of ancient teachings.
Great Photo Op 📷
Capture the essence of ancient Greece and the legendary tree. Drone footage is also available!
Tips
from all over the internet
Free to Visit! 💰
Enjoy this significant historical landmark without any admission fee. A great value stop!
Combine with Castle Visit 🏛️
It's conveniently located near Neratzia Castle and the harbor, making it easy to explore multiple sites.
Imagine the History 📚
The current tree is a descendant, but let your imagination fill in the gaps of ancient teachings.
Great Photo Op 📷
Capture the essence of ancient Greece and the legendary tree. Drone footage is also available!
Learn the Legacy 🥺
Connect with the birthplace of Hippocrates and the foundations of Western medicine.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Tree of Hippocrates a historically significant and free landmark in Kos Town, offering a tangible connection to the 'Father of Medicine.' While the tree itself is a descendant, its symbolic value and serene atmosphere are appreciated, especially when combined with nearby attractions like Neratzia Castle.
"The Hippocrates Tree is a lovely spot to visit in Kos Town. It offers a nice bit of nature and a chance to learn some of the history behind Hippocrates and his connection to the island. Overall, it also gives you a nice overview of the bay area, making it a pleasant stop while exploring the town."
Glen Bataillie (Glen Bataillie)
"You can enter right from street by the government building by the ocean, with a busstop nearby. It is also close to the old castle and the harbour. There is not much to see but with anything else, it is still always good to witness some history in some form."
Caroline Nelson
"It is true that there isn't much here other than a derelict tree that at one time saw the beginnings of the field of medicine. We supply the backstory ourselves, using imagination and this simple, humble setting becomes the most amazing place!
It's free to visit and hugely consequential in world history. Visit!!"
Warren Baker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tree of Hippocrates is located in Kos Town, easily accessible from the street by the government building near the ocean. There's a bus stop nearby, and it's a short walk from the old castle and the harbor.
While specific parking lots aren't highlighted, Kos Town has several public parking areas. It's best to park in the town center and walk, as the tree is in a central, pedestrian-friendly area.
Yes, the Tree of Hippocrates is within walking distance from the Kos harbor, making it a convenient stop for cruise passengers or those arriving by ferry.
Absolutely! There's a bus stop conveniently located near the Tree of Hippocrates, making it easy to reach via local bus routes within Kos Town.
Approaching from the waterfront or the direction of Neratzia Castle offers a scenic route. The tree is a central landmark in Kos Town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Tree of Hippocrates is completely free! It's a public landmark, allowing everyone to experience its historical significance without charge.
As an outdoor landmark, the Tree of Hippocrates is accessible at any time. However, for the best experience, visit during daylight hours and consider the cooler parts of the day.
There is no entrance fee. The Tree of Hippocrates is a historical site open to the public free of charge.
While you can technically see the tree at night, it's best visited during daylight hours to appreciate its surroundings and historical context.
No booking is required. It's a freely accessible historical site in Kos Town.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the ancient plane tree itself, believed to be a descendant of the one Hippocrates taught under. You'll also find a statue of Hippocrates nearby and enjoy views of the bay.
No, the current tree is not the original. It's estimated to be several hundred years old and is considered a descendant or successor to the original tree where Hippocrates taught.
A visit to the Tree of Hippocrates is typically brief, often around 15-30 minutes, especially if combined with nearby attractions.
Legend states that Hippocrates, the 'Father of Medicine,' taught his students and reflected under this tree, making it a deeply symbolic site for Western medicine.
There are no specific facilities directly at the tree itself, but being in Kos Town, you'll find plenty of cafes, restrooms, and shops nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the grandeur of the ancient tree, the statue of Hippocrates, and the scenic bay views. Drone footage can offer unique perspectives.
Absolutely! The Tree of Hippocrates offers a tangible connection to ancient history, perfect for evocative historical photographs.
Some creators have captured drone footage, showcasing the tree and its surroundings. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the tree's atmosphere.
Generally, photography is allowed. Be mindful of other visitors and respect the historical nature of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine the visit with exploring the nearby Neratzia Castle, which often captivates children with its ramparts and history. The open spaces around the tree and castle provide room for kids to move, and the views of the bay can be engaging. Pack snacks and water, as facilities are limited directly at the tree.
🏛️ History Buffs
Consider visiting the Asclepieion of Kos for a deeper dive into ancient Greek medicine. Pair your visit with the Archaeological Museum of Kos and Neratzia Castle to create a comprehensive historical tour of the island.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance, take your time to absorb the history, and perhaps strike up a conversation with other visitors who share an interest in the site. It's also a great spot to simply sit, observe the surroundings, and enjoy the views of the bay.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Tree
Visiting the tree offers a unique opportunity to step back in time. Imagine the discussions, the learning, and the dawn of rational medicine taking place beneath its branches. This tangible link to the past makes it a profoundly significant site for anyone interested in history, medicine, or the enduring power of ancient wisdom.
Even though it's not the original tree, its symbolic weight is undeniable. It serves as a constant reminder of Hippocrates' legacy and his profound impact on the world. The serene atmosphere surrounding the tree encourages reflection and a deeper appreciation for the historical roots of healing.
Exploring Kos Town and Surroundings
Strolling through the charming streets of Kos Town, you'll discover a blend of ancient ruins and Venetian architecture. The Archaeological Museum of Kos is also nearby, housing artifacts that further illuminate the island's rich history. Don't miss the chance to wander through the Ancient Agora, remnants of the old city center.
For those interested in the broader legacy of Hippocrates, a visit to the Asclepieion of Kos (though a bit further out) is highly recommended. This ancient healing sanctuary was a major center for medical practice and worship in antiquity, offering a more in-depth look at the medical traditions of the time.
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