Chios (Sakiz)

Chios Island (Sakiz Adi) is situated just 7 kilometres from the Turkish coastline on the Aegean Sea, it is the 5th largest of the Greek Islands in the region and a 40-minute ferry across the Cesme Strait can take you to this magical island. Smaller than the nearby islands of Lesbos and Rhodes, Chios is an ideal day trip or weekend location. The island boasts pristine beaches, picturesque villages and stunning scenery. Chios is most famous for its production of Mastic, the teardrop-shaped resin grows on trees on the south side of the island in the Mastichochoria region; Mesta and Pyrgi are traditional mastics producing villages along with many more. Mastic has been the main income for the island for many years, with multiple uses from paint production to medicine and even edible products. On the island you can find local shops selling mastic perfumes, alcohols, sweets and jam; harvest season lasts about one month and begins on Augusts.

Aside from Mastic production Chios Island is also famously rich in history, said to be the birthplace of Homer as well as several Greek writers and politicians and historic record date back to the Neolithic Age and examples of Byzantine architecture can be found across the island.

Chios Town
The town of Chios (Chora) is centrally located on the eastern coast of the island, built-in Ionian times it is an interesting mix of old and new and has become the cultural centre of the island. Around the central port are many cafe's and eateries specializing in Greek cuisine and seafood, it is a vibrant area with a lively nightlife. Vounakio, the central square, is also a popular coffee spot, ideal for soaking in the local culture, bars fill up here in the evenings. Just behind the harbour, you can stroll along Aplotaria, a pedestrian street lined with shops and market stalls selling local products and souvenirs, many mastic products and handmade wood crafts are laid out in pretty displays.

When you've finished shopping you might like to make a visit to the Municipal Park. Other attraction in the town include: the Maritime Museum of Chios, housed inside the Anastasis and Marouko Pateras Family home, or visit the Byzantine Museum, inside a 19th century Ottoman mosque, the famous Delacroix painting hangs on the old walls. One of Chios Town's main attractions is the 11th century fortress which stands alongside the towns harbor, here you can see tomb of the Egyptian General, Kara Ali, who dies during the 1822 attack on Chios.

Sights and Attractions

Nea Moni
New Monastery was built in the 11th century, it is one of the most significant religious building of the Greek Byzantine era. Nea Moni is a UNESCO world heritage site and host an extensive museum and impressive mosaics. Nea Moni lies just 11 kilometres west of Chios town, open from dusk till dawn, it is a must-see while on the island.

Pyrgi

Pyrgi is the largest of the 24 medieval villages located in the south of Chios Island, known as the Painted Village for its decorative facades, with black and white geometric designs. Take a walk through the narrow street, visit old churches and taste local foods, agriculture and mastic production are the main occupations in the region and locally sourced products can be purchased from quaint shops. Pyrgi retains its original architectural style and makes for a pleasant day trip from Chios Town, 25 kilometres away.

Mesta
This is another beautiful example of a Greek medieval village. Here you can wander through the cobblestone castle streets and shop for mastic goods. There are several eateries and ice cream stalls, don't forget to taste some of the locally made wine and Souma, a liquor made from distilled grapes and figs.

Avgogyma and Anavatos
Two deserted villages lie to the south of Chios Island; Avgogyma is a pre-medieval village while Anavatos hosts the ruins of a Byzantine village, it was an important place during the Massacre of Chios as well as the Greek War of Independence. Anavatos sits on the cliffside with a sheer drop to a pretty beach, both villages are worth visiting and are located close to Nea Moni.

Kampos
Kampos is a protected historical village surrounded by orchards of citrus and mastic trees, only 5 kilometres from Chios town. The medieval village dates back to the Byzantine era, though there are also examples of Neoclassical architecture. Stone mansions line narrow streets and flowers decorate the huge gardens, Kampos is a picturesque town situated on a level plain between low hills.

Beaches
Chios Island is home to many stunning beaches, prepared with sun loungers, umbrellas, beachside bars and restaurants. The crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving and there are many options for Cruises to other Greek Islands or along Turkeys Turquoise Coast. Beaches located close to Chios town include Daskalopetra, Afanis Naftis and Bella Vista Beach. Although the most dazzling beaches are further from the town and Mavros Gialos, 28 kilometres west of the town, is said to be the most beautiful of all for its volcanic sand and black pebbles, the beach is enclosed by rocky slopes and deep blue water.

How To Get There?
There is a regular Ferry Boats to other Greek Islands in the Aegean Sea and between Chios Island and Cesme, Turkey. Boats leave at least daily and the journey usually takes about 35-40 minutes by ordinary ferry or 20 minutes by fast ferry. More Info...