The altar of Dionysos is situated in an enclosed area of Kos town practically opposite the Casa Romana. It dates back to the second century B.C. -a time of booming activity and expansion for the city of Kos- and is typical of a Hellenistic type of Altar. The Altar was damaged somewhat during the 142 A.D. earthquake and partially restored. Many parts were used by the Knights of St. John in the construction of the Neratzia Castle. On the western side you can clearly see the inclined part that gave access to the Altar. The site was excavated by the Italians in the beginning of the 1930s but their discoveries were not fully disclosed or published. The frieze that used to adorn the exterior of the Altar depicts various scenes with Amazons as well as Dionysian themes. It dates back to the second part of the 2nd century A.D. and is currently warehoused inside the castle of Neratzia.
