General Information
Chios is a large island with fertile flatlands that combine harmoniously with the steep gorges of the interior, with vibrant, noisy places that alternate with peaceful corners, and with a wild coastline that forms exotic sandy beaches. This island, claiming to be the birthplace of Homer, is covered with extensive pine forests, crofts, and the renowned worldwide masticha gum trees, whose distinct aroma can be felt all around the narrow alleys. Medieval villages of an incomparable architecture create an unforgettable setting that most film directors would love, as it depicts memories of past centuries with unmatched realism. Its population reaches 51000 inhabitants, while its extent covers an area of 842 sq.km.
History - Culture
The island of Chios, named after the Minoan princess Chiona, a grand-daughter of the legendary king Minos, was first inhabited during the Neolithic period. Findings of an advanced settlement in Agios Galas have been dated around 3.000 BC, and there is evidence that the island has been continuously inhabited ever since. From ancient times it has played a major role in the regional commercial activity, enjoying a considerable state of prosperity which came to an abrupt end with the Persian invasion in the beginning of the 5th century BC (493). The inhabitants rebelled with the assistance of Athens, and joined its Athenian alliance. Rule of the island came to Macedonia, Rome, Venetia, and the Byzantine Empire. By the end of the 13th century, Chios was occupied by the Genoese, who kept it until 1566, when they lost it to the Turks. At the beginning of the Greek War of Independence, the island rose against the Turks. The revolt on the island, lacking support from the main rebel forces, failed, and hundreds of Christians were massacred or enslaved. The news travelled all across Europe, shocking the public opinion of the time. After this, Chios naturally fell into decline. In addition to Homer, Chios has nurtured many important personalities of recent Greek history such as Mavrokordatos, Korais, Psycharis, Porphyras, Roidis, and many more.
Sights
Chios is an endless spectacle; medieval villages, archaeological sites, Byzantine monasteries, churches, castles and natural beauties are concentrated on the island, captivating the visitor in every respect. Among the major sights of the capital town one should include the castle, the Homer cultural centre, the Municipal Park, the mills, the Arts gallery and the Korais Library. The Byzantine castle, towering watchfully over the city, is the predominant attraction in the town of Volissos, while the impressive monastery of Aghia Markella and dozens of churches -the most significant being the one of Aghios Georgios- are definitely worth noticing. In Vrontado, the tourist can visit the tomb of the writer Psycharis and the three windmills. A Byzantine tower still stands proud in Thymiana, and remains of medieval settlements are evident in Kalamoti. Mesta hosts the ruins of the temple of Apollo Phanaios, the Acropolis, and ruins of pre-historical settlements. The list goes on with innumerable churches, monasteries and museums with very interesting exhibits. Furthermore, the natural beauty of the island is no less impressive than the monuments that adorn it.
Entertainment-Sports-Shopping
A large, rich, and organized island, Chios is certain to offer top quality services and a comfortable stay. There are numerous hotels, rooms for rent, entertainment and shopping facilities in the towns of Vrontado, Thymiana, Kalamoti and Pirgi. Water sports activities are provided on every major beach such as Karpha, Kalamoti, Lithi, Aghia Fotini, and Megas Limionas, while Vrontado and the capital town offer extensive sports facilities. Local festivals enlighten visitors with deep cultural insights, while local traditional products such as masticha chewing-gum, local sweets, ceramics, hand woven and embroidered textiles and honey, are certain to find a place in the luggage of all visitors. Masticha products are unique, produced only in Chios, and have been a major source of trade for the local populace.
Access
Regular flights are carried out from Athens and Thessaloniki. Ferries depart from the port of Rafina with service being more frequent during summer.
Connections
Flights are carried to Athens, Thessaloniki and Mytilene. Ferries to Lemnos, Kavala, Thessaloniki, Mytilene, Aghios Efstratios, Samos, Icaria, Inousses, Psara and to the islands of the Dodecanese. In the summertime, there is a connection with Syros, Volos, Patmos and Skyros.
Museums
The capital city of Chios hosts an Archaeological museum with interesting findings, an impressive Byzantine museum, a Folk Art and Tradition Museum and the Justinian Exhibition Hall. In Vrontado there is a museum with exhibits from the nautical activity of the island. There is also a Nautical Museum in Kardamyla, and a Folk Art Museum in Pirgi.
Alternative Tourism
Archaeology, gastronomy, cultural, spiritual, sporting (water sports, sailing, windsurfing, trekking).
Useful Telephone Numbers:
CHIOS AREA CODE: 22710-
POLICE STATION: 22710-81537
TOURIST POLICE: 22710-81539
TELECOMMUNICATIONS ORG.: 23599
MUNICIPALITY: 22710-44333, 44389
PORT POLICE: 22710-44433, 44434
POST OFFICE: 22710-44350
TAXI STATION: 22710-41111, 43312, 43313
HOSPITAL: 22710-44302
BUS STATION: 22710-27507
PHARMACIES: 22710-24039
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