About
Famous for its medieval villages, mastic production, and Byzantine monasteries. Known as the birthplace of Homer according to local tradition.
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.
