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Chios

Atmospheric Medieval Villages, Volcanic Pebbles and Floral Motifs under the Scents of Citrus and Mastic

Atmospheric medieval mastic villages and beaches of wild beauty with volcanic pebbles will literally take your breath away. Mansion houses with flowery gardens and citrus orchards and dense forests with miraculous tears of mastic will astonish your eyes. Impressive mosaics and geometric shapes with floral motifs and deserted settlements with remnants of the 13th century will travel you back in time. A different world is unfolding in front of you ready to be explored. Hanging in a corner of the Aegean, the value of Chios is timeless blessed from the fragrant scents of mastic and the majestic diversities of the landscapes. Every region of the island is hiding an unexpected surprise. Notorious for their naval history, the Chians are proud for their history and traditions giving an extraordinary opportunity to the travellers to experience the authentic face of Greece. If you are pursuing in discovering the other side of Greece, the unexplored and mysterious one, then you should definitely visit Chios. Deserted to its distinctive beauty, Chios served as an economic and cultural center in the northern part of the Aegean, with a sting of invaders and colossal powers, that gave to the island a unique character and an exceptional identity that will literally surprise you. Are you ready to unveil the mysteries of Chios?

In & Out of Chios Town

Discover the Wonders of Chios Town   

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Chios Town, else known as Hora, is administrative, cultural and spiritual center of the island located on the east side of Chios. Originally the location of an ancient site, the city was first constructed on the northern part of the natural harbor. By the 16th century, the fortified town was further fortified from its successive rulers into a massive medieval castle. However, the city was substantially rebuilt in the neoclassical style following the devastating earthquake of 1881. Although the city center does not distinguish for its beauty, it offers a series of monuments worth visiting. Start from Alpotaria Market, the traditional market of the town where you will find all sorts of traditional products, and head to Vounaki Square with its picturesque coffee corners. From there, you can visit the Municipal Gardens of Chios. Kennedy Street leads to the Castle of Chios, the most intriguing part of the town. Characterized as one of the most imposing castles of the Aegean, the Castle of Chios will definitely impress you!

The Castle of Chios: Made from the Genovese

Characterized as one of the most imposing castles of the Aegean, the Castle of Chios will definitely impress you! The main entrance of the castle is Porta Maggiore that was constructed from the Venetians in 1694. One of the most impressive buildings of the castle is the Giustiniani Palace built from the Genoese for housing the headquarters of the administration; nowadays various cultural events are held in the building. The Dark Dungeon is another building of the Genoese period, which was used as the prison of seventy Chiots who where held until their execution, after the unsuccessful rebellion against the Ottomans. The Ottoman Graveyard is a monument in memory of important Ottomans while the Ottoman Mosques of Hamidiye Cami and Eski Cami, now Church of Agios Georgios, are also located within the castle. Other important buildings that have been preserved within the walls are the Cold Fountain, an underground cistern of the Byzantine period, and the Tower of Koulas. However, one of the most impressive sights of the castle is the Ottoman Baths. Walking up the street of Agios Georgios, one will have the opportunity to admire exemplary houses of the local traditional architecture. The castle of Chios is protected as a site of archaeological and historical importance from the Presidential Decree.

Museums Splendor: Learn about the Archaeological Significance and the Maritime Tradition of Chios

The Archaeological Museum of Chios is a cultural treasure trove of Chios history exhibiting a wide collection of items from the Neolithic times to the Roman Age. 8.000 years of continuous history are exhibited in a wonderful archaeological museum. The main exhibition “Chios of the Sea, City of Enopion” includes interesting exhibits from the everyday life of the inhabitants of Chios from the Neolithic period up until the Roman period. The periodical exhibition Psara In Antiquity contains an interesting exhibition of artifacts including vases, gold jewelry, terracotta figurines and funeral gift items that were found in the Mycenaean Necropolis of Archontiki on Psara Island. Of major significance is also the prehistoric vase found in Emborio that dates back to the 14th century BC, geometric amphoras found in the town of Chios that date back to the 8th century BC and golden leaves found in a grave at the town of Chios that date back to the Hellenistic years. Address: 10, Michalon Street Telephone: 0030.22710.44239 Working Hours: 08:00 to 15:00 except Mondays

The Maritime Museum of Chios is a private museum that was established in order to maintain, present and preserve the long maritime tradition of the island. The building of the museum was donated from ship owner Anastasios Pateras in order to house the museum. Its exhibits include a wide range of artifacts including ship models, paintings, photographs and navigation tools that belonged to Chian seafarers. The museum also organizes events and activities with subjects related to the maritime industry of Chios while the museum pursues cooperation with other maritime museums of the Greek Archipelago. Address: 20, St. Tsouri Street Telephone: 0030.22710.44139 Working Hours: 10:00-14:00 except Sundays Website: Chiosnauticalmuseum.gr

Medieval Glory

Discover The Mastic Villages Of South Chios

Built from the Genoese, the mastic villages of Chios Island are believed to have the best preserved medieval fortified architecture in the Mediterranean. Whispering the silence of the sheer grandeur of the southern part of Chios, it is definite that the mastic villages will surpass your expectations. The defense network of Chios consists from castles, watchtowers and fortified settlements that are considered to be the best-preserved defense network in the Mediterranean. The medieval past of Chios has marked the entire island with monuments from the Byzantine, the Genovese and the Venetian periods. Chios’ key geographical position in the Eastern Mediterranean acquired an important significance during the Byzantine Empire, as it served as the seal of the naval administrative region of the Aegean. Its geographical position also caused competitiveness amongst the Genoese and Venetians who tried to conquer it. During Genoese domination (1346 – 1566), fortified settlements were constructed in the villages of southern Chios, where mastic is produced, in order to defend in case of external invasions. In fact, the Genovese constructed these complexes in order to provide shelter to the families who lived in these village and cultivated mastic. The existence of the mastic villages of Chios is inextricably related with the valuable crystal tears shed from the mastic trees that grow only on the southern part of the island. Today, only twenty-four villages have withstood the passage of time, since the majority of them were destroyed from the massive earthquake of 1881. Nonetheless, some fortified villages are still intact. Are you ready to unveil the mysteries of the mastic villages of Chios?

MESTA: A STEP BACK TO THE MEDIEVAL TIMES

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Characterized as a place with medieval spirit, Mesta is one of the most beautiful villages of Greece. Even though you might think that the nobility of Mesta has gone away through the centuries, the sceneries will prove you wrong. Entering the village, you will literally feel like that you have stepped back to the medieval times. Passing through cobblestone archways and labyrinthine alleys, your eyes will be captivated from the beauty of the medieval mansions. Old ladies dressed in black sit in front of their houses and old men play backgammon at the central square attest the relaxing aura and the fresh air of Mesta. The heart of the village beats in the central square along with the bell tower of the Church of Taxiarhis. As you pass from the imposing entrance of the church, you will felt the serenity of hers. A village worshipped from conquerors will make you appreciate the simple moments in life. One of the main characteristics of this village is the goodness and the hospitality of the inhabitants of Mesta; whether this will be a simple greeting, a call for directions in the labyrinthine alleys or a narration of a story from their village, the inhabitants of Mesta show their intense love for their village in every possible way.

The Jewels Of The Architecture

Mesta is the best-preserved medieval mastic village of the island. The village was constructed with the fortified architecture of the Genovese in the 13th century. The continuous structural construction testifies the organization and discipline of the settlement in the three horizontal levels of the streets, the houses and the terraces. The fortress of Mesta used to have only one gate on the northern end of the village, namely the Porta of Capetanio carved with the lintel symbol of the army that remains in excellent condition up until today. During the Genoese occupation, the gate used to opened in the sunrise and close in the sunset. The Gate of the Captain was the only gate of the castle so that conquerors could easily check the entry of the products, especially the product of mastic. One of the most essential elements of the defensive architecture were the streets constructed in a labyrinthine system with deadlocks and outlets with the intention of confusing the attackers and giving advantages to the locals in case of invasions. The vaulted arches over the streets support the arches of the houses by forming bridges that connect the parts of the village where terraces are not joined while helping to the ventilation system of Mesta. Several arches though, support the rooms of the houses and the terraces creating valuable residential properties. The construction of the houses was organized as fortresses built one right next to the other forming the protective wall of the castle with a height of eight meters. Mesta boasts one of the finest examples of defensive architecture and has been declared as a preserved monument from the Ministry of Culture. As you will exit the castle, you might have the impression that you were walking in a place where history and present blend in a mysterious way, a place of living history.

Church Of Taxiarhis: The Pride Of Mesta

The inhabitants of Mesta are proud for their magnificent church of Taxiarhis, else called as Big Taxiarhis with the intention of distinguishing it from the older church of Taxiarhis. The church of Taxiarhis, dedicated to Archangel Michael and Gabriel, is built on the foundations of the pre existing castle tower. The interior part of the church is decorated with wood carved temples and ancient hagiographies while the outer part is embellished with a magnificent pebbled courtyard and an imposing bell tower made from the stone of Thymiana village of Chios that is renowned for its reddish stone. The church is considered as the largest church of the island and one of the largest churches of Greece. Following the withdrawal of the Genovese, the tower was abandoned inhabited solely from crows and snakes. In 1958, the villagers decided to demolish the tower and rebuild the church, as they thought that these creatures were evil omens. The construction of the church lasted for a period of ten years and the villagers voluntarily participated in the construction. The church of Taxiarhis is one of the most representative folklore examples of the architecture of Chios.

OLYMPI: AN AUTHENTIC MASTIC VILLAGE

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Olympi is yet another medieval mastic village of the southern part of Chios. Just like Mesta, the beautiful houses of this fortified settlement are connected to each other in a way that used to form the defensive outer wall. Olympi is an authentic mastic village that has been preserved through time; a highly worthwhile stopover for those eager to discover the medieval glory of Chios. The sole main entrance of the village, known as Kalo Porta, the defensive tower, the narrow cobblestone alleys and the impressive archways attest the medieval atmosphere to the village. It is also worth visiting cave of Olympi, an impressive natural monument located in the area of Sykia, close to the village of Olympi. The cave distinguishes for its stalagmite and stalactite formations that were formed 150 million years ago. The most distinctive custom of Olympi is the revival of the Agas Trials, a satirical replica of the trials that were held during the Ottoman Occupation, that takes place during the carnival season. The villagers appoint a man to be dressed as Agas, a strict judge of the Ottoman period, who convicts almost all visitors and villagers. Although the trials are based on humor, the Agas custom dates back to the beginning of the 19th century.

PYRGI: THE PAINTING VILLAGE WITH THE GEOMETRICAL MOTIFS

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Designated as a listed monument from the Ministry of Culture, Pyrgi is the largest mastic village of the island that gives the impression of a painting village. Like the other medieval villages of the island, Pyrgi was constructed as a four cornered fortress with narrow alleys and tight houses with the intention of protecting the mastic area from invasions. Wandering around the village, you will be captivated from the impressive work of the plasterers and the unique geometrical floral motifs, known as xysta, of the village. The villagers chitchatting in the benches of their houses and children riding their bicycles in the narrow cobblestone alleys will travel you to the tranquil atmosphere of this island. While admiring the facades of the houses, an old man showed us his beautiful village of Pyrgi and explained us all the mysteries of the art of xysta narrating them with a peaceful smile with a glorious pride in his aged eyes. Leaving this charming corner, we met a young boy selling traditional local products in his shop; he was the one who, although his age, narrated us the thriving history of mastic, a product found nowhere else than Chios. Leaving Pyrgi, we observed the dried cherry tomatoes hanging from the balconies of the buildings that give a refreshing color to the black and white facades of the houses.

Xysta: The Artisans Of Pyrgi

Xysta represent a unique architectural motif found nowhere else in the country. The facades of the houses are decorated with scratch cards of black and white geometrical shapes and floral motifs. However, the most intriguing part of xysta is their manner of creation. The scratch cards are decorative shapes engraved and sharpened on fresh mortar of the facades of the buildings. This technique was probably introduced to the island from Genoa of Italy during the Genovese occupation. Numerous xysta have been found in Pyrgi with engraved the date of 1813 while old photographs testify the long tradition in the village. Up until today, the art of xysta is well maintained. The majority of the plasterers of Pyrgi know the technique and mix cement, lime and sea sand on the surfaces of the buildings. Then, the surface is covered with liquid lime and becomes white. Once dry, the plasterers engrave the surfaces with various tools including diabetes, metal stylus and spirit levels. The next step is to scrape the surface of the lime with a fork and numerous geometric motifs appear. The artisans of Pyrgi improvise and create various motifs resembling the Italian technique of sgraffito, whose ulterior standards are in the Renaissance architecture of Italy. Xysta is a cultural phenomenon attesting the mix of cultures and civilizations of the East and the West.

It’s Time For Explorations

Explore The Picturesque Villages Of Unknown Chios

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In contrast with the southern part of the island, northern Chios offers a different experience to the travellers. Picturesque villages nestling on the slopes of high mountains and deserted settlements forgotten in time dominate the craggy peaks of mountain Pelineo while the verdurous beauty along the virgin western coast of Chios seem to have emerged from another planet. From the spiritual comfort of Agia Markela Monastery, the abandoned medieval village of Anavatos and the holy cave of Agio Galas to the verdant village of Langada, the sunset from Avgonima, picturesque Volissos and seaside Kardamyla, it is definite that northern Chios is ready to ignite even the most demanding travellers!

Avgonima: Magical Sunsets

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Characterized as a place with one of the most beautiful sunset views of the Aegean, Avgonima is a charming settlement located on the western shores of Chios. The village has a charming character with stone houses and cobblestone alleys eluding an atmosphere of tranquility. Elinda, Giali and Trahili are some of the finest beaches of the island that distinguish for their pristine beauty and their calm atmosphere. It is a must to enjoy the local delicacies at the taverns of Avgonima, as the view to the island of Psara and the bay of Elinda over the endless blue of the Aegean is astonishing.

Kambos: An Endless Garden Of Citrus Trees

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Nominated as a historical area from the Ministry of Culture, Kambos is one of the most fertile villages of the island known for its citrus orchards and colorful mansions. Kambos represents a unique agricultural and residential site located in a very critical area in Greece and Europe. The village lies in a valley of great historical importance covered with orange, lemon and mandarin trees, all of which are protected from magnificent wooden gates. Kambos has retained the medieval character of the area with its well-preserved neoclassical houses depicting the exceptional architecture of the area. Every mansion of an estate is considered to be an exquisite masterpiece with an exceptional architectural character. One of the most important monuments of Kambos is Citrus Memories, an organization established with the sole purpose of showcasing the history of Kambos and promoting the cultivation, collection and distribution of the citrus trees of Kambos. The museum is live-history itself. Though, cycling in the area of Kambos is the best option to discover the imposing mansions and the verdant vegetation of the area. One way or another, the entire region of Kambos is one of the most impressive landmarks of the island.

Citrus Orchards: A Walk In The History Of Kambos

During the 14th century, the Genoese decided to build their mansions in the area of Kambos, thus creating new social and economic levels in the area. High walls made from the reddish stone of Thymiana protected the mansions from the dust of the summer and the winds of the winter. Elaborate cisterns decorated with marble reliefs and spouts, shady trees avenues, flower gardens with courtyards create a unique atmosphere. Arched doors and windows, arcades with marble pillars, balconies held up by charming arches, gigantic entrance gates with coats-of-arms and reliefs, pebbled courtyards and frescoes ceilings offer a individuality to the architectural style of the area. The systematic cultivation of citrus trees in Kambos as well as the export trade of the fruits was introduced to the inhabitants of Chios from the family of Giustiniani. It was then that the systematic cultivation of the citrus trees in Kambos started flourishing in the island during the 17th and 18th centuries. However, major events of the island including the massacre of the population of Chios in 1822, the frost in 1850 and the major earthquake in 1881 destroyed the area. The following years, the reconstruction and resettlement of the area started with beautiful mansions keeping the old aristocratic architecture.

Mandarin Of Chios: A Product With Protected Geographical Origin

The mandarin of Chios is the fruit of the trees of Citrus Deliciose Tenore of the variety of Chios. The European Commission recognized the value of the mandarins of Chios declaring it as a Product With Geographical Origin. The uniqueness of the mandarin is determined from its rich nutritional value of the ingredients making its very aromatic and tasty.

Kardamyla: Homeland of the Seafarers

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Located on the northeast edge of the mastic island, Kardamyla is homeland of the seafarers of Chios. The location of the settlement between the mountainous scenery and the seaside setting provide a magnificent view to the travellers. The village is separated into the upper section of the older village, Ano Kardamyla, which nestles on the craggy hills of Mount Grias, and the seaside section of Kardamyla. Ano Kardamyla distinguishes for its traditional architecture, its narrow alleys and its cobblestone alleys while Kardamyla has a charming character with beautiful seafarers mansions and narrow alleys. Make sure to visit the windmill of Kardamyla in order to admire the amazing views. If the atmosphere is clear, you will see the island of Lesvos in the distance beyond the Aegean Sea. Near Kardamyla, you will find the beaches of Nagos and Giosonas, two of the most beautiful beaches of Chios.

Volissos: The Capital Of Northern Chios

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Claimed as one of the seven places of the origin of Homer, Volissos is the largest village of the northern part of Chios. The village has a traditional character with stone houses and cobblestone alleys spreading amphitheatrically on the slopes of a mountain. The entire village is crowned from the byzantine castle of Volissos, which is considered as a project of General Vellisarios of the 6th century. From the castle, one will have the opportunity toi admire a breathtaking view to the Aegean Sea. Driving from Chios Town to Volissos offers a spectacular ride with alternating mountainous and seaside sceneries. Make sure to bring your camera with you! Volissos has a distinctive aura of serenity especially in springtime, an ideal season for hiking explorations. In the wider area, one will also find extraordinary beautiful beaches including Managros, Magemena and Lefkathia.

Agia Markella: The Patron Saint Of Chios

In a close proximity from Volissos, you will find the pilgrimage center of Chios, the Monastery of Agia Markella. Agia Markella is the saint protector of Chios. The biggest religious celebration in honor of Agia Markella is held on July 22. According to tradition, the saint did not want to obey the immoral desires of her pagan father. He chased her into the rugged mountains, and found her hidden in a bush. With the intention of forcing her to come out, he burned the bush making her to come out and start running while praying to the God to open the earth and save her. So it happened, and his father cut off her head and threw it into the sea. Worshippers from all over the island visit the monastery the night before the feast to show their faith to the miraculous saint.

Vrondados: Rocketwar Fireworks

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Known for its long maritime tradition, Vrondados is a seaside village spreading amphitheatrically on the mountain slopes of Epos on the eastern side of the island. According to tradition, Christopher Columbus visited the village with the intention of studying the nautical layouts from the experienced sailors of Vrondados so that they could help him for his great journey to the discovery of America. Make sure to visit the windmills of Vrondados in order to admire the views to the Aegean Sea! The most notable celebration of Vrondados is unique custom of the Rocket War where the churches of Agios Markos and Panagia Erithiani fire rockets to each other until the winner hits the bell tower of the other. The origin of the custom is still questionable; however, there are two different prominent versions of the story. According to the first one, the Ottomans confiscated the canon of Vrondados over the fear they would be used for rebellions, so the locals resorted to fire rockets instead. However, the second story states that the custom has its roots in the Ottoman occupation. The inhabitants of the island were not allowed to celebrate Easter, so the Christians from the churches of San Maria and San Marco decided to have a fake war with rockets with the intention of keeping the Ottomans away. Indeed, the Turkish were frightened and kept a safe distance while the rockets were fired and the communities could celebrate the resurrection of Jesus in the meantime. Unquestionably, the Rocket War is one of the most celebrated Easter events in Greece!

Langada: Delicious Fish Taverns

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In a close proximity from Vrondados, you will find the charming settlement of Langada. You can expect great hospitality from the locals and tasteful fresh fish in the seaside taverns. The surrounding area creates serene landscapes with verdant vegetation, an ideal place for excursions!
Must Visit

The Ghost Medieval Town of Anavatos & Its Wild Evocative Scenery

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Anavatos is a medieval fortified village located in the central region of the island. Although it is deserted, the village is one of the most impressive historical monuments of Chios plunging into a huge granite conical rock on the top of the cliff. Anavatos played an important role in the War of Independence in 1821 and the Massacre of Chios in 1822. It is believed that this medieval village was founded for military purposes, mainly for the surveillance of the western coast of the island. Anavatos, else known as the Mystras of Chios, has been designated as a historical site while it is also considered as a national monument of the island. The village was abandoned following the horrible massacres of 1822. Climbing to the fortified settlement of Anavatos, you will be overwhelmed with countless emotions, as you will not be able to know if you will have be impressed from the well-preserved remains of the settlement or you will have to stay silent to honor the women who preferred to jump of the cliff with their children rather than fall into the domination of the Ottomans. The entire area of Anavatos is a living history, a realistic legend that remains in excellent condition up until today.

Just An Echo Of The Once Glorious New Monastery of Chios

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The New Monastery of Chios is one of the oldest monasteries of the country that has been recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery was founded from the Byzantine Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos and his wife, Empress Zoe, during the 11th century. According to tradition, the monastery was built on the exact location where three monks, Iosif, Ioannes and Nikitas, miraculously found an icon of Virgin Mary hanging from a branch of a myrtle. At that time, Constantine was exiled from the island of Lesvos, and the monks visited him to tell him their vision, that he would eventually become emperor. Indeed, Constantine became an emperor and constructed the monastery as he promised. The main church was inaugurated in 1049, while the complex was finished following Constantine’s death in 1055. The New Monastery became one of the wealthiest monasteries of the Aegean until the Massacre of Chios from the Ottomans in 1822. Nowadays, the monastery extends over an area of seventeen thousands square meters comprising from the main church, two smaller churches, the dining area of the monks called trapeza, the quarters of the monks called kelia, the ecclesiastical museum of the monastery and the underground cisterns for the collection of water along with a strong defensive tower. However, the monastery is mostly known for its mosaics boasting one of the finest examples of the Macedonian Renaissance Art in Greece.

Mastic Tears

Find It Nowhere Else Than Chios

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The mastic of Chios is one of the finest products of Greece that can be found nowhere else than Chios. It is a natural resin of the Pistacia Lentiscus Var Chia trees whose distinctiveness has attributed it as a Product with Protected Designation of Origin from the European Union. Mastic was first mentioned from Herodotus who refers to its usage in embalming while women used to use as a breath freshener in the Roman times. Even Christopher Columbus was astonishment from the properties of mastic when he visited the island. According to scientific research, the resin has anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. Since antiquity, mastic was known for its health benefits, as it was the first natural chewing gum. It also contributes to a healthy gastrointestinal system and has beneficial qualities for the skin care and the oral hygiene.

Cultivation Of Mastic: The South Side Of Mastic Villages

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The Pistacia Lentiscus Var Chia is a scrub growing in the south part of Chios. The aromatic resin called mastic has been renowned for its beneficial qualities and its multiple uses since antiquity. The cultivation of production of mastic, an ancient practice unaltered over the centuries, impacts the cultural landscape and the social structure of the twenty four mastic villages of Chios, a product which is exclusively extracted only in the land of the southern side of Chios.

Collection Of Mastic: The Traditional Way

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The collection of mastic is carried out with the traditional way. Workers flatten the area around the tree and tear the tree trunk in certain points. The gum begins to flow and it gets stabilized ready for collection in a period of fifteen days. Then, the product is sieved, washed and cleaned thoroughly piece by piece, and then advanced to the market.

Uses Of Mastic: Millions Of Ways

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The mastic of Chios has been recognized for its special aroma and its healing properties since antiquity. It is recorded as the first natural chewing gum of the ancient world that was used to clean the teeth while it was also used as a cosmetic to clean the body and the face. Moreover, mastic is an active ingredient in a number of pharmaceutical prescriptions. According to scientific research, the mastic of Chios has a beneficial effect in diseases of the digestive system, helps oral hygiene and acts as a natural antioxidant while contributing in wound healing. Undoubtedly, the uniqueness of the mastic of Chios is attributed to its excellent healing properties. Mastic has extensive uses representing a source of inspiration in the food and beverages, chemical and pharmaceutical industries, as well as in the production of cosmetics and perfumes.

Wonders of Nature

Dives in Emerald, Sapphire and Turquoise Waters

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Whether you want to enjoy the tranquility of the Aegean Sea or your want to relax in cosmopolitan sandy beaches, Chios offers a wide range of beaches of extreme natural beauty. The western coast of Chios hosts some of the most pristine and virgin beaches of the island that distinguish for their verdurous vegetation and their cold waters. Likewise, the southwest coast has beautiful beaches ideal for those looking for tranquility and isolation. On that part of the island, you will also find the star of Chios, the famous Mavra Volia beach with its black volcanic pebbles and its dark blue waters. Undoubtedly, the best way to discover your own corner of paradise in Chios is to rent a car! So, grab your keys and start driving!

Agia Dynami: Turquoise Bliss

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Characterized as the most beautiful beach of Chios, Agia Dynami will astonish you with its natural beauty. Verdant trees and turquoise waters mark the individuality of this beach. The beach owes its name to the church of Agia Dynami, which is situated just above the beach. The benches and the tables of the church provide the ideal setting for a picnic. Did you bring your basket with you?

Agia Markella: Spiritual Majesty

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Set in front of the holy monastery of Agia Markella, the patron saint of Chios, it is definite that the beach of Agia Markella distinguishes for its spiritual majesty. Scattered black pebbles and deep cold waters are the two main characteristics of this beach. At the northern end of Agia Markella beach, a narrow path between the rocks and the sea leads to the place of the martyrdom of Agia Markella called Agiasma. In that beach, it is definite that you will find your own peace!

Apothika: Pristine Beauty

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Distinguished for its pristine beauty, Apothika is a wonderful sandy and pebbled beach well sheltered from the gusty winds of the Aegean. Apothika is the place to be if you want to enjoy the serenity of nature. The beach is one of the favorite beaches of the inhabitants of Mesta due to its close proximity to the village. One of Mysterious Greece’s supporters shared with us his mystery; if you walk through the swallows from Apothika beach, you will find a tiny pebbled beach next to Apothika; an ideal location for total privacy!

Elinda: Virgin Sceneries

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Located on the western part of the island, Elinda is a well-sheltered bay with crystalline waters. The surrounding verdant sceneries create a tranquil atmosphere of serenity. Its rare beauty is stunning. Verdant mountains surrounding the bay and the pine trees reach up to the seaside of Elinda beach. This beach is definitely a must during your visit in Chios. An image equals one million words; what do you think? Maybe Elinda claims the title of the best beach of Chios!

Giosonas: In the Sounds of Yoso Beach Bar

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Located five kilometers away from Kardamyla, Giosonas beach is a long beach with smooth pebbles wide open to the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Mythology has it that the beach was named in honor of Jason, the legendary hero, who allegedly passed from this place during the Argonauts’ expedition on his quest to retrieve the Golden Fleece. Yoso Beach Bar is one of the best beach bars you will find on the island of Chios; relax in one of the colorful cushions and enjoy the delicious cocktails of Yoso Beach Bar! A highly recommended spot from Mysterious Greece!

Komi: As Cosmopolitan As It Gets

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Komi, one of the most beautiful beaches of Chios, is one of the most popular beaches of the island located on the eastern coastline. The soft goldish sand of Komi in conjuction with the deep blue waters of the Aegean will ultimately revitalize your body and mind. The beach is well organized for sun-seekers with a wide range of amenities from sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and cafeterias, taverns and restaurants, diving centers and water sports facilities. What else you might need?

Mavra Volia: Black Volcanic Pebbles

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Mavra Volia is the star of Chios; a long black-volcanic pebbled beach with dark and cold blue waters! This beach is one of the most beautiful beaches of the island that was created from the volcanic eruption of the dormant volcano of Psaronas. Make sure to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints!

Tigani: Pure Beauty

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Tigani is yet another mysterious treasure of Chios. One of the locals’ favorite, Tigani is an ideal destination for diving explorers as its underwater sceneries are quite interesting. Tigani is the place to be if you are looking for tranquility and relaxation. If you stay until late, you will have the opportunity to enjoy one of the most spectacular sunsets on the island of Chios.

Vroulidia: Chios’ Best Kept Secret

Vroulidia

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As they say, save the best for last; Vroulidia is one of Chios’ best-kept secrets! Tiny pebbles with thick sand and turquoise waters surrounded from a wild rocky landscape create the most beautiful haven on the southern part of island. The scenery of this beach seems exotic! Undeniably, Vroulidia is a must!

Kiss Night Goodbye from Medieval Chios

Chios

© Mysteriousgreece.com

Medieval mastic villages and impressive mosaics and geometric shapes with floral motifs will take your breath away. Terracotta mansions with flowery gardens and citrus orchards will astonish your eyes. Dense forests with miraculous tears of mastic and abandoned settlements with traces of the 13th century will travel you back in time. Where else could you possibly find all these elements in one island? Chios, the fifth largest island of Greece, is one of the most beautiful islands of Greece with rich historical momentums. If you want to learn more about the authentic side of Greece, then Chios is the right island for you.

DISCOVER THE TIPS OF CHIOS FROM MYSTERIOUS GREECE

Unveil the mysteries of Chios from the travel guides of Mysterious Greece!