Sanctuary of Aphrodite
The sanctuary of Aphrodite, located in the Eastern Archaeological area of Kos Town, was founded in the late 3rd – early 2nd century AD, upon a high podium. It may well have succeeded an earlier one, of the late 4th – early 3rd century BC. Inside the sanctuary stood two identical temples with altars, dedicated to Aphrodite Pandemos and Aphrodite Pontia. The entrance was on the north side, facing the entrance of the harbour and was the first building that appeared in the eyes of someone arriving to the city by sea. The overall dimensions of the structure were 62.4X45m. The sanctuary was completely destroyed by the earthquake of 469 AD.
According to inscriptions found hereabouts, the priestess responsible for the sanctuary had to be healthy and sound of limb. The office, which was for life, was put out to tender and could be subcontracted to a third party by the incumbent. The treasury was opened once a year, in the presence of the Prostatai. The income was shared equally between the priestess and the public purse, in the goddess’ account, to be used for the needs of the sanctuary.