Chios is a beautiful Greek island located in the Aegean Sea. The island is famous for its mastic gum, which is produced from the resin of the mastic tree and has been used for centuries in medicine, cosmetics, and cooking. Chios also boasts a rich history, with many historic sites such as the medieval village of Mesta, the Byzantine monastery of Nea Moni, and the Castle of Chios. The island’s stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages make it a great destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure.
Wander around the picturesque alleys and citrus gardens of Kampos. Visit medieval villages and castles. Discover a different beach every day. Taste the aromatic unique in the world Chios natural Mastiha. Participate in fascinating traditional events, such as the Rocket War at Easter. Admire the Byzantine monastery of Nea Moni, a UNESCO World Heritage Monument. Pack your bags, then, and discover Chios, a unique island of the Aegean.
Chios has the best-preserved medieval defense networks in the Mediterranean (castles and towers, watchtowers, fortified settlements). It is a remarkable preservation of the defense system, similar to those of other parts of the Mediterranean, with byzantine and Genovese elements.
The island’s medieval past is marked by the monuments of the Byzantine, Genoese, and Venetian periods that were salvaged both in town and in the villages. The island’s key Eastern Mediterranean position, from a geopolitical standpoint, resulted in it acquiring such significance during the Byzantine Empire (seat of the Naval Administrative Region of the Aegean). It also caused competitiveness amongst the Genoese and Venetians who tried to conquer it.
The medieval period comes to life in the island’s numerous castles and towers, which needed to be fortified and defended against pirates, invaders, and aspiring conquerors.
More specifically, during the years of the Genoese Domination (1346-1566), fortified settlements were built in the villages in the south of Chios, where mastic is produced (Mastichochoria), to defend against external invasion, but also to control the workforce. Remarkably, to this day the Castle of Chios as well as the medieval fortress villages are inhabited.
