About 7-6th century BC in the territory of Ancient Greece originated the cult of the god of healing Asclepius, born mortal son of Apollo and received immortality for his exceptional skill. All ancient Greek sanctuaries dedicated to Asclepius (about 300 are known in total) were called "asclepions", and they were not only cultic buildings, but also healing centres that played an important role in the accumulation and systematisation of knowledge about medicine, which of course had a favourable effect on its development. In the asclepions also taught the art of healing future healers.
One of the largest and most interesting asclepions is a relatively well-preserved sanctuary of Asklepios on the island of Kos, discovered by archaeologists in the early 20th century. The famous Asklepios is located just 4 km away from the administrative centre of Kos on a picturesque hill surrounded by a dense spruce forest. Today it is one of the main attractions of the island, as well as an important historical and architectural monument.
The sanctuary was built in the 4th century BC and was a complex of terraced structures on the slopes of the hill. The lower level once housed the medical faculty, a designated place for gifts, the so-called "waiting rooms", etc. On the second level there were various temples (including the temple of Apollo), as well as baths with healing "red water", where hydrotherapy sessions were conducted. The temple of Asclepius was located on the third level and only a select few were allowed access to it. According to ancient legend, one of the most famous and prominent people in the history of medicine - the legendary ancient Greek physician and "father of medicine" Hippocrates - also studied at the Asklepion of Kos.
