In the heart of Kos Town, standing proudly near the Castle of Neratzia, is one of the most famous and historically significant trees in the world—the Hippocrates Tree. According to legend, Hippocrates, the father of medicine, once sat beneath this ancient tree, teaching his students the principles of medicine and healing. Though the original tree from his time no longer exists, the massive plane tree (Platanus orientalis) that stands today is believed to be a descendant of the very tree under which Hippocrates taught over 2,400 years ago.

For history enthusiasts, medical professionals, and travelers alike, the Hippocrates Tree is more than just a tree—it’s a living monument to the origins of modern medicine. Visiting this landmark is a unique experience, offering insight into both ancient medical teachings and the cultural heritage of Kos.

✔ Born in Kos around 460 BCE, Hippocrates revolutionized the way diseases were understood and treated.
✔ He challenged superstitions and religious explanations for illnesses, focusing on observation, diagnosis, and rational treatment.
✔ He founded the Hippocratic School of Medicine, where he taught his students how to analyze symptoms and apply logical cures.
✔ His medical writings and case studies influenced healthcare for centuries and remain relevant today.

💡 Tip: If you’re interested in Hippocrates’ impact on medicine, consider visiting the Asklepion of Kos, an ancient healing sanctuary dedicated to medical practice and learning.

✔ It’s free to visit, making it one of the best historical sites to explore in Kos.
✔ It’s located near other important attractions, such as Neratzia Castle and the Ancient Agora.
✔ A great spot for photos, especially for those with an interest in medicine, history, or Greek culture.

💡 Tip: If you want a quieter visit, come early in the morning before the crowds arrive!

Before Hippocrates, most illnesses were believed to be caused by supernatural forces or the displeasure of the gods. Treatment often involved prayers, sacrifices, and rituals rather than scientific methods.

📍 Hippocrates' Key Contributions to Medicine:

✔ He introduced clinical observation – Instead of attributing illness to divine punishment, Hippocrates examined patients, documented symptoms, and recorded patterns.
✔ He established the four humors theory – He believed that human health depended on the balance of blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile, laying the foundation for early medical theories.
✔ He pioneered ethical medicine – His Hippocratic Oath introduced the idea that doctors should act in the best interests of their patients, a principle still upheld in medical ethics today.

💡 Did You Know? The term "Hippocratic Face" comes from Hippocrates' medical writings, describing the facial appearance of a person suffering from a long illness—one of the earliest recorded medical diagnoses.

The Hippocrates Tree isn’t just famous for its connection to the ancient physician—it has become a global icon of medical education and ethical practice.

✔ Medical students from around the world visit Kos to pay homage to Hippocrates.
✔ Cuttings from the tree have been sent to medical schools in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, symbolizing the continuation of medical knowledge.
✔ The tree is a powerful reminder of how ancient wisdom continues to shape modern science.

The Hippocrates Tree is more than just a historical landmark—it is a living piece of world heritage that requires careful preservation. Due to its age, size, and cultural significance, the tree has been the focus of numerous conservation efforts to ensure that future generations can continue to admire and learn from it.

Additionally, the legacy of Hippocrates and his teachings is honored in medical schools, universities, and cultural events worldwide. From cuttings of the tree being planted in medical institutions to annual celebrations in Kos, the Hippocrates Tree remains a globally recognized symbol of medicine, ethics, and knowledge.

Due to the tree’s historical and cultural significance, several international conservation organizations and botanists have worked on projects to preserve it.

📍 Steps Taken to Protect the Hippocrates Tree:

✔ Structural support – Large metal braces have been placed to prevent the tree from collapsing.
✔ Restricted access – Visitors cannot climb or touch the tree to reduce physical damage.
✔ New growth initiatives – Cuttings and seeds have been collected to grow new generations of the Hippocrates Tree.
✔ Local and international research collaborations – Scientists and conservationists monitor the tree’s health and suggest treatments to prevent decay.

💡 Tip: When visiting the tree, admire it from a respectful distance to help preserve it for future generations!

Every year, Kos celebrates its most famous historical figure through festivals, lectures, and special events dedicated to Hippocrates and his contributions to medicine.

📍 Annual Events Honoring Hippocrates in Kos:

✔ Hippocratia Festival (July-August) – A series of cultural events, theater performances, and lectures about Hippocrates’ legacy.
✔ Medical Conferences in Kos – Scientists and doctors gather on the island to discuss modern applications of Hippocratic medicine.
✔ Hippocratic Oath Ceremonies – Medical graduates from around the world visit Kos to take an oath inspired by Hippocrates near the famous tree.

💡 Tip: If you visit Kos in the summer, check for special events related to Hippocrates and ancient medicine!

🚶 On Foot:
✔ If you're staying in Kos Town, the tree is within a 5-10 minute walk from most hotels.

🚲 By Bicycle:
✔ Kos is a bike-friendly island, and there are bike lanes leading to Eleftherias Square, right next to the tree.
✔ Bike parking is available nearby.

🚗 By Car:
✔ If you're driving from other parts of the island, parking is available along the main roads near the harbor.
✔ From Tigaki, Marmari, or Psalidi, it’s a 10-15 minute drive to Kos Town.

🚌 By Public Transport:
✔ Local buses run regularly from major tourist areas like Kardamena, Mastichari, and Kefalos to Kos Town.
✔ The main bus station is just a 5-minute walk from the tree.

✔ The tree is enclosed by a metal fence to protect its fragile structure.
✔ Several plaques and signs explain the history of the tree and its connection to Hippocrates.
✔ There are benches nearby, making it a nice place to sit and reflect.
✔ The surrounding area is full of other historical landmarks, so you can easily combine your visit with nearby sites.

💡 Did You Know? Some legends claim that seeds from the Hippocrates Tree were planted in different parts of the world, ensuring that his legacy lives on.

✔ It’s a symbol of knowledge and medical history.
✔ It’s one of the most famous landmarks on the island.
✔ It’s conveniently located near other major historical attractions.
✔ It offers a unique opportunity to connect with the legacy of Hippocrates.

💡 Tip: Don’t forget to explore the Ancient Agora and the Archaeological Museum of Kos, both located just a short walk from the tree!