Architecture

Whitewashed stone-built houses with flat roofs and bright-painted front doors and shutters are characteristic for the traditional architecture on the island of Kos. Narrow, stone-paved alleys, winding their way among the houses, are also typical of Kos.

The island’s architecture shows signs of influence from foreign intruders, who invaded the island at different times of history, as for example the Ottoman architectural style of some water fountains and mosques. Italian and Venetian influence in particular is also evident in some of the buildings on the island. The best examples of the island’s traditional architecture can be seen in the villages of Asfendiou, Pyli, Kefalos and Antimachia. The island is scattered with picturesque windmills which add to its fascinating and attractive landscape.