Hippocrates still lives on the island of Kos

Kos, the second largest island in the Dodecanses, was the birthplace of the physician, who like the tree, lived to a venerable age. It is known for its hot springs, orange groves, vineyards and resplendent gardens, and has given a name to a variety of lettuce introduced from its shores. The town of Kos is a pretty little port, with tidy streets and many new and old Venetian style buildings of elegant design. The castle of the Knights of St. John built by the Venetians in 1450 dominates the harbour with its high stone walls.