The majestic Hippocratic plane tree stands in the centre of the capital of Kos, in the middle of Platia Platanou Square, and is adjacent to the equally interesting monuments of the Loggia Mosque (built during the time of Gazi Hassan Pasha) and Neratzia Castle (also known as the Castle of the Knights of St. John).

The age of the current tree is estimated to be around 500 to 1000 years old and is therefore highly unlikely to be the original plane tree from the time of Hippocrates. However, it is said that the plane tree is a descendant of the original tree that grew here in the 5th century BC, when the famous ancient physician Hippocrates sat under its crown and debated with his pupils. Hippocrates is often referred to as the founder of modern medicine because he established medicine as a scientific discipline based on observation and subsequent treatment. He refused to see illness as a divine punishment, but instead promoted the theory of the influence of the surrounding natural environment and lifestyle, or heredity in the family. Paul of Tarsus, also known as the Apostle Paul, who spread the teachings of Jesus to the world in the 1st century, is also said to have taught his disciples under this plane tree.

The tree belongs to the Eastern plane tree ("platanus orientalis L.") and has a crown diameter of about 12 metres, making it the largest plane tree in Europe. However, some of its branches are so spreading that they have to be supported by metal scaffolding to prevent them from breaking. The metal railings are connected to the girders around the whole tree. The wall has Turkish ornaments on one side, while on the other is a white tap with an engraving in Arabic that says 'water from the Hippocratic tree'.

The Hippocratic plane tree is such an admired tree that its seeds or cuttings have been distributed all over the world. In particular, medical schools, libraries and institutions in the field of medicine are fascinated by the story of the plane tree of Kos and are eager to plant a branch of it. One such famous "offspring" of the Hippocratic plane tree is located on the grounds of the National Library of Medicine in the USA.

More touristic destinations of Kos

Most favourite sights of Kos: Agora (archaeological site), Archaeological Museum (Kos Town), Asklepion (archaeological site), Neratzia Castle, Roman Odeon, Old town of Paleo Pili

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Kos.