Abandoned medieval settlement Paleo Pili (or Old Pili) - an important historical monument and one of the main attractions of the Greek island of Kos. The settlement is situated in the center of Kos, about 17 kilometers from the island's capital of the same name, on the slopes of the mountain range Dikeos, at an altitude of about 300 meters above sea level.

Today, on top of a rocky hill overlooking the Paleo Pili, you'll see the ruins of the old, once majestic Byzantine fortress built probably in the 11th century, during the reign of the Macedonian dynasty of the Byzantine Empire. The location was strategically chosen, as it provides reliable protection and excellent visibility, which allows to control also the coast of Asia Minor (western coast of modern Turkey). During the reign of the island of the Knights of St. John castle thoroughly fortified, making it one of the key defensive structures of Kos. Unfortunately, to the present day walls and buildings inside the fort are preserved only partially.

The very same settlement Paleo Pili takes quite a large area. Here you see a lot of ruined medieval houses, a Turkish bath and three old church - the church of Panagia Yapapanti, founded in the 11th century by Reverend Christodoulos, with beautiful frescoes of the 14th century, carved wooden iconostasis and antique columns from the nearby ancient Greek temple of Demeter (4th century BC), the Church of the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel with a fairly well-preserved wall paintings from 14-16 century and the church of St. Anthony since the Knights Hospitaller.

For centuries, the Paleo Pili prospered and was an important administrative center of the island. In 1830, after another outbreak of cholera settlement was abandoned forever.

After seeing the ruins of the old town, ancient temples, stunning scenery and stunning panoramic views from the top of the hill, you can visit and one of the oldest and most picturesque villages of Kos - Pili, located very close to the picturesque valley, nestled at the foot of the mountains.