Pyli

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Long-standing customs

Built in the center of the island’s countryside, among lush vegetation, olive trees and grassy fields, Pyli is located 15 km southwest of Kos town and can be easily reached through the main road network. In ancient times, the village was called “Peli”. The village’s highlight is its square, featuring traditional stone-built houses, and old school kafeneia - i.e. traditional cafes and taverns, preparing coffee, refreshments and other fine delicacies. 

In the center of Pyli settlement, about 100 meters from St. Nicholas square, visitors can rest at the popular drinking water fountain of Pyli which provides fresh running water. The spring gushes out of a square stone-built construction, in fact cold water flows from 6 spouts! Its abundant crystal clear waters are an oasis and are also used for watering nearby gardens. As the inscription on its south side indicates, the fount was restored in 1592. Another interesting sight in the village is the traditional house of Pyli (or Pyliotiko Spiti), an old house with three rooms representing the kitchen, hall and bedroom of a traditional house, in which furniture and utensils are seen as left by its owners about 70 years ago. 

The ancient tomb of Harmylus, an ancient king of Kos is one of the most interesting archeological monuments of Kos, about 300 meters east of the central square of the village (St. Nicholas Square). A burial complex of the Hellenistic period, featuring a stone chamber with 12 graves, built under a semicircular arch and located under the small Orthodox chapel of Stavros. The ruins of the medieval settlement and castle of Palio Pyli, both built found over the mountain, are an impressive spectacle on Kos, offering panoramic views of the Aegean.

Throughout summer, the municipal authorities and local clubs and associations organise various cultural events, attracting a large number of people in the village of Pyli. Access is pretty easy, using a car, motorbike, taxi or public transport. About two kilometres before reaching Pyli there is an artificial pond, the waters of which are used to water nearby fields. You may spot a duck, or two!

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Did you know?
Did you know?

Pyli is where the carnival is celebrated on Kos Island, with an established parade and other relevant festivities. Another go-to event is the annual horse racing custom honouring St. George (April, 23). The folk customs of “Fanos” and “Klidonas” are performed during summer, on 23rd of June, on the eve of celebrating the Birth of St. John the Baptist. The custom of Klidonas has its roots in antiquity and its first written description dates back to Byzantine times. For the custom of “Fanos” villagers light fires, the so-called "boubounes", burn the wreaths made on May 1st along with various dry tree branches and jump over the fires. A large fire is set up in the village’s square so that visitors can jump over. 

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Coordinates
Coordinates
36.8423528, 27.1568572
Kos Island Greece