The island of Kos is the third in size in the Dodecanese Islands, in the southeastern region of the Aegean Sea. It is the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of medicine, who was born in the island around 460 B.C. and founded the Great School of Medicine of Kos.

The island is famous for its rich vegetation and temperate climate and it was characterized by the Roman doctor Gallino as "the most temperate place in the world". The endless coasts with the turquoise waters, the plethora of water springs, the ancient and medieval monuments, as well as the impressive Italian buildings portray Kos island.

The main port and population center in the island is also its tourist and cultural center, with whitewashed buildings including many hotels, restaurants and a small number of nightclubs forming the famous Kos town "barstreet". The town has a 14th century fortress at the entrance to its harbor, erected in 1315 by The Knights of Saint John of Rhodes.