“It was on this very rock in Vrontados that Homer, the blind poet of the Iliad and the Odyssey, is said to have recited his epic tales to eager listeners.” – A local about Daskalopetra (“Homer’s Rock”)
Historical Significance
Chios is one of the largest islands in Greece, located in the northeastern Aegean Sea, and it has a rich and varied history. Here’s an overview of the History of Chios Island:
Ancient History
- Early Settlements: Chios was inhabited since the Neolithic period (around 3000 BCE). It was part of the Greek world from the earliest times, influenced by Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations.
- Chios in Greek Mythology: In Greek mythology, Chios was associated with several myths. The island was the home of the famous poet Homer, though some debate this claim. Chios also had connections to the god Dionysus and the myth of the wine.
- Ancient Chios: The island was a significant cultural and economic hub in the 6th century BCE. It was a member of the Ionian League, a group of Greek city-states. The island’s wealth was built on its production of wine, olive oil, and its famed mastic, a resin used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
- Chian Philosophers: Chios produced notable philosophers and intellectuals, such as the pre-Socratic philosopher Xenophanes, who critiqued the traditional Greek view of the gods.
Roman and Byzantine Periods
- Roman Rule: Chios came under Roman control in the 2nd century BCE. The Romans continued many of the traditions and economic practices of the Greeks, including the island’s wine and mastic production.
- Byzantine Era: After the fall of the Roman Empire, Chios became part of the Byzantine Empire. The island flourished under Byzantine rule, and its strategic location in the Aegean made it an important naval and trading hub. Many Byzantine churches and monasteries were built on the island during this period. There are even options to book an apartment in the Castle of Chios.
The Genoese Era (14th–16th Century)
- Genoese Control: In 1346, the Genoese took control of Chios and established a significant presence on the island. During this period, Chios became a crucial naval base for Genoa and an important center for trade, particularly in mastic. Genoa’s influence helped the island prosper economically, but also made it a target for piracy.
- Mastic Industry: Under the Genoese, Chios became the center for the production of mastic, a resin harvested from the mastic tree. The Genoese set up a monopoly on mastic production and ensured that it remained an island-specific product, thus ensuring great wealth for Chios.
Ottoman Period (16th–19th Century)
- Ottoman Rule: Chios fell under Ottoman control in 1566. During the Ottoman period, the island maintained its importance as a trade center, but its people faced harsh taxation and political instability. The Ottomans continued to profit from the island’s mastic industry.
- The Chios Massacre (1822): One of the most tragic events in the island’s history occurred during the Greek War of Independence in 1821. After the Greek revolutionaries took control of other parts of the country, the Ottomans retaliated by attacking Chios. In 1822, the Ottoman forces massacred a large portion of the island’s population, killing thousands and enslaving many others. The massacre was a major event that sparked outrage across Europe and increased support for Greek independence.
Modern Era
- Greek Independence: Chios was eventually liberated from Ottoman rule as part of the broader Greek War of Independence, officially joining the modern Greek state in 1832.
- 19th and 20th Century: After its integration into Greece, Chios began to recover from the Ottoman period, though it still faced challenges such as economic hardship and periodic conflict with neighboring nations.
- World War II: During the Second World War, the island was occupied by the Axis powers, like much of Greece. After the war, Chios underwent reconstruction and became a key part of modern Greece.
Contemporary Times
- Modern Day: Today, Chios is known for its natural beauty, medieval villages, and the continued production of mastic. Its rich history, combined with its archaeological sites, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture, make it an attractive destination for visitors interested in history and Greek heritage.
Medieval Villages
Chios Greece is home to several well-preserved medieval villages, such as Mesta and Pyrgi. These villages are characterized by their unique architecture, narrow streets, and fortified structures, offering a glimpse into the island’s medieval past. You can walk around here for hours and imagine yourself in the Middle Ages and enjoy a nice drink on one of the terraces. Here you will also take the most beautiful vacation photos.
During the day you can reach Pyrgi by bus from Chios. If you want more flexibility and freedom, rent a car or stay overnight in one of these ancient villages to experience the magical atmosphere of the evenings.
What is Chios known for?
In this overview, the mastic trees definitely should be included. Chios Greece is renowned for its production of mastic gum, a resin obtained from the mastic tree. This unique product has been cultivated on the island for centuries and is used in various culinary and medicinal applications. The Mastic Villages, or Masticahoria, are a group of villages in the southern part of the island where mastic production is concentrated.
The island also boasts a rich tradition of festivals and cultural events. The most famous is the Rocket War (Rouketopolemos) held in the village of Vrontados during Easter, where two rival churches engage in a friendly competition by launching fireworks at each other.
Every year one of the mastic villages (it rotates every year) in the southern part of Chios organizes a festival of mastic products and dishes. Enjoy nice markets, music and often you can even taste free mastic dishes. Highly recommended!
🧪 Fascinating Fact
Chios is the only place in the world where the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus var. chia) naturally produces its rare, fragrant resin—an ancient substance once worth its weight in gold.
🌿 Where to Buy Mastic Products on Chios
Chios is the only place in the world where authentic mastic resin is harvested, making it the ideal place to shop for high-quality, locally made mastic products. These are not just souvenirs—they’re part of the island’s centuries-old heritage.
🛍️ What to Buy
- Mastiha liqueur – A sweet, aromatic spirit made from mastic resin. Refreshing and traditionally served chilled.
- Mastic chewing gum – A natural, centuries-old alternative to modern gum with antibacterial properties.
- Mastic cosmetics – Creams, soaps, and oils that use mastiha’s soothing and healing qualities.
- Mastic sweets – Including loukoumia (Turkish delight), ice cream, spoon sweets, and mastic-flavored chocolates.
- Mastiha powder or crystals – Used in baking, sauces, and traditional Greek recipes.
🛒 Where to Buy
- Mastiha Shop (Chios Town): The official outlet supported by the Chios Gum Mastic Growers Association. You’ll find a wide variety of certified products here, from culinary ingredients to skincare.
- Mastic Villages (Mastichochoria): Visit villages like Pyrgi, Mesta, and Kalamoti, where you can buy directly from producers and cooperatives. Many offer tastings and explanations of how mastic is cultivated.
- Local Pharmacies & Markets: Many pharmacies stock natural mastic-based remedies, and open-air markets often feature handmade mastic products from local families.
💡 Tip: Look for the “Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)” label to ensure authenticity.
Geography and Notable Features
Chios Island is the fifth largest island in Greece and the tenth largest in the Mediterranean. It is separated from Turkey by the Chios Strait. The island is known for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and pristine beaches.
Beaches
Chios Greece boasts over 90 beaches, each with its unique charm. Some of the best beaches in Chios are:
- Mavra Volia: Known for its black volcanic pebbles and crystal-clear waters. According to the people of this island, this is the most beautiful beach on the island.
- Karfas: A long sandy beach with shallow waters, ideal for families. Near the main city and the airport. Many tourists book their favorite hotel on Chios Greece here, as all accommodations are close to the beach and there are plenty of restaurants.
- Agia Dynami: A secluded beach with turquoise waters, perfect for relaxation. The perfect place for a refreshing dive after visiting the cave of Olympoi.
- Lithi Beach: A lovely sandy beach and clean water. It is located in a quiet spot on the west part of the island.
- Megas Limnionas Beach: A popular beach near the popular places Agia Ermioni and Karfas. Crystal clear water, but parts can be rocky. Perfect for families.
Natural and Historical Attractions
In addition to its beaches, Chios Greece is home to several natural and historical attractions:
- Castle of Chios: This medieval citadel in the island city was built in the Byzantine period (9th century). Walk across the old bridge into the city gate and imagine yourself in ancient times. The castle is well worth a visit for its narrow streets, cozy restaurants and Ottoman bath. You can even stay overnight in style.
- Nea Moni: An 11th-century monastery and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning mosaics. During the Massacre of 1822, many locals who fled to this place and also 600 monks were murdered by the Turks here. In the chapel on the site you will find bones of victims.
- Homer’s Rock: This rock (Daskalopetra) can be found in Vrontados. According to the legend, Homer sat on this stone and recounted his poems there. These poems were written down by his students because Homer himself was most likely blind.
- House of Columbus: In Pyrgi you will find the house where Christopher Columbus is said to have lived for a while in 1474. Every resident of this medieval village can tell you where it is. Feel free to ask and they will be happy to point it out to you.
- Turkish Bath: It originates from the 18th century and is located within the walls of the Castle of Chios. It can be visited free of charge from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays). It’s a very nice addition during a walk through the castle of Chios.
- Olympoi’s cave: A fascinating cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. During the visit, the guide tells interesting facts and deep inside the cave there’s a very special animal living. The cave can be visited daily from 11:00 to 17:30 (closed on Mondays) for only €5 per person.
🧳 Practical Travel Information
✈️ How to Get to Chios
By Air: Chios Island National Airport (JKH) offers daily domestic flights from Athens and Thessaloniki. The flight from Athens takes about 50 minutes. During summer, some international charter flights may also be available.
By Ferry: You can reach Chios by ferry from Piraeus Port (Athens), with journeys taking around 7–9 hours, depending on the vessel. There are also ferry routes from nearby islands (Lesvos, Samos, Ikaria) and from Cesme, Turkey, which is just 30 minutes away—ideal for a two-country trip.
☀️ Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Chios is from May to October, when the weather is warm and ideal for beach days and outdoor exploration.
- June and September offer the perfect balance of sunshine, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
- Easter is a special time to visit if you want to witness the Rocket War (Rouketopolemos) in Vrontados—a truly unique cultural experience.
🏨 Where to Stay on Chios
Chios offers a variety of accommodations for every traveler—from boutique stays to historical experiences:
- 🏰 Castle Apartments: Stay within the Castle of Chios, a Byzantine-era fortress. These apartments offer medieval charm, proximity to the Old Town, and a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Greece.
- 🏡 Village Guesthouses: Book a cozy guesthouse in medieval villages like Mesta or Pyrgi to immerse yourself in the island’s history. These stone-built homes offer authenticity, quiet surroundings, and a magical evening ambiance.
- 🏖️ Beach Resorts: For convenience and comfort, Karfas and Megas Limnionas offer beachside hotels ideal for families or couples, with tavernas and sunset views just steps away.
Conclusion
Chios Greece is a destination that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in exploring medieval villages, relaxing on pristine beaches, or learning about the island’s unique history, Chios Greece has it all.