Deserted medieval settlement Paleo Pili (or Old Pili) is an important historical monument and one of the main attractions of the Greek island of KOs. The settlement is located in the Central part of KOs, approximately 17 km from the homonymous capital of the island, on the slopes of the mountain range Dikeos, at an altitude of about 300 m above sea level.

Today on top of a rocky hill overlooking the Paleo Pili, you will see the ruins of the old, once-majestic Byzantine castle, built probably in the 11th century, during the reign of the Macedonian dynasty of the Byzantine Empire. The location was chosen strategically, as it provided reliable protection and excellent visibility, allowing you to control and also the Asia Minor coast (West coast of modern Turkey). During the reign of the island of the knights of St. John fortress thoroughly fortified, making it one of the key fortifications of the island of KOs. Unfortunately, the walls and buildings inside the fortress has been preserved only partially.

The settlement of Paleo Pili covers a large territory. Here you will see many dilapidated medieval houses, a Turkish bath and three historic churches – the Church of Panayia Ypapanti, founded in the 11th century by the monk 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 14-16 century and Church of St. Anthony the times of the knights Hospitallers.

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

After inspecting the ruins of the old cities, ancient temples, incredible landscapes and stunning panoramic views from the top of the hill, and you can visit one of the oldest and picturesque settlements Spit - Drinking, situated very close to the beautiful valley, situated at the foot of the mountains.