Colors of Kos - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Going to the island of Kos, travelers should definitely find out more about local rules of etiquette; they are quite simple and can help to find common ground with natives. Entering to a public institution, shop or restaurant be sure to greet all those present. You have to answer on greetings; at the same time shaking hands with strangers is not accepted. Locals welcome travelers who are trying to communicate in Greek with a great respect.

If you greet a seller on a market or in a store in his native language, you can reckon on a good discount and promotional gifts. During conversation locals are actively using hand language and a dialogue between two friends can recall a heated argument or quarrel. In fact, there is no aggression in gestures; their main task is to help to express emotions, but not to threaten the interlocutor.

When interacting with new acquaintances, locals often use interjections referring to companions. Such treatment also shouldn’t be considered an insult or a sign of disrespect, it's just one of the features of national culture. Kos is an island with a rich history, it has a lot of interesting symbols. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

According to historical data, 2.5 thousand years ago on the island great physician Hippocrates was born. Here, he founded his first school; the famous plane tree is one of the major attractions and the undisputed symbol of Kos. It’s not easy to find a famous tree, so all travelers wishing to have a trip on their own are offered to buy a special map.

The most popular memorable gift to travelers is the Hippocratic Oath, you can buy it in every souvenir shop. Oath is written on small scrolls, to which the world-famous plane tree leaf is attached. It is also worth mentioning that you can find oath written literally in any language in local souvenir shops. Subject of healing is predominating on the island. Travelers say that here there is a truly unique healing atmosphere; many of them visit the island in hope of just getting rid of diseases.

One of the island's holidays is dedicated to the "Father of Medicine". The most interesting events are organized in the capital of the island. The open-air festival's program includes not only musical and dance performances but also art exhibitions and theatrical shows recreating scenes from the life of Hippocrates. During the festival, thematic excursions are organized to the Tree of Hippocrates - if what is said is true, it was here that the Father of Medicine taught his successors. The colorful event takes place throughout August. Those visiting the islands at this time will never get bored.

In the same period, that is, throughout the hot month of August, the Wine Festival is traditionally held. On weekends, winemakers present their best varieties of the drink to the public. The event is held throughout the whole island in the central streets and parks of this or that city. Only two cities stand apart: Kefalos where visitors to the local festival can taste fresh fish and Antimachia where the role of the “hero of the occasion” is given to traditional honey. In addition to fairs, musical and theatrical concerts are organized. Restaurants and cafes join the celebration by offering a special menu, all the cities are enveloped in a fiery atmosphere - no event can do without public festivities.

Not only the legends about Hippocrates but also the myths with the participation of Hercules are associated with Kos. The fact is that the island was first mentioned in legends about the wanderings of the ancient Greek hero. After the victory of Greeks in Troy, it was here that he saved himself from the wiles of jealous Hera who had sent a huge storm to the strong man. Having gained strength here, he continued on his way, but local people will forever remember that the son of Zeus once visited their homeland. The islanders are very proud of the fact of visiting the island by the legendary hero - several temples are erected in honor of Hercules here.

All the locals are avid Orthodox Christians, so religious holidays are very widely celebrated on the island. One of the most revered holidays is Easter, which usually takes place in April. On April 23, the island traditionally celebrates a holiday in honor of St. George who is considered the patron of soldiers and farmers. The feast day of the Assumption of Mary that falls on August 15 is considered to be no less significant in the Orthodox tradition of Kos. The old Greek festival Panigiri is celebrated throughout the island on September 8. Traditional religious services, parades, prayers - all this can be witnessed during Orthodox holidays.