Chios is an island in the North Aegean, part of Greece and close to the Turkish coast. It is a destination for visitors who want a mix of old villages, monasteries and the particular produce the island is known for.
What draws visitors
- Medieval villages. Chios is known for its medieval villages, where stone houses and narrow lanes give a sense of the island's long past.
- Mastic. The island is famous for mastic, the resin that has been produced here for centuries and is used in local foods, sweets and liqueurs.
- Byzantine monasteries. Several Byzantine monasteries stand on the island, making it a good choice for those interested in religious and architectural heritage.
A link to Homer
Local tradition holds that Chios was the birthplace of Homer. The claim is one the island takes seriously, and it adds a literary dimension to a visit, especially for readers of the ancient epics.
Chios suits a slower kind of trip. Visitors can spend time moving between villages, tasting mastic-flavoured food, and visiting the monasteries at their own pace. Its character rests on these few strong features rather than on a long list of attractions, so a visit tends to be shaped by what you choose to see and how long you stay.
