Discover the villages of Chios

Chios, looks like a patchwork quilt of villages, each patch a different color and pattern, telling its own story. You’ve got everything from the famous Mastic Villages to these cozy little coastal towns. They’re the heart and soul of Chios, giving you a real taste of what this island is all about.

Take Pyrgi, for example. They don’t call it the ‘Painted Village’ for nothing. The houses here are like a black and white kaleidoscope with their ‘xysta’ designs – that’s a fancy name for the intricate geometric patterns that cover the walls, a throwback to when the Genoese ran the show. Strolling through Pyrgi is like stepping into a living museum.

Then there’s Mesta. This place is like stepping onto a medieval movie set. It’s an old Mastic Village, all fortified and snug. The streets twist and turn like a maze, all part of the grand plan to keep pirates at bay back in the day. The houses huddle together, creating this big protective wall. It’s quite the sight!

Olympi’s another stunner in the Mastic Village lineup. It’s got this old-world charm, with beautiful buildings and a famous cave that pulls in the crowds. The village square is the place to be, with its cafes and tavernas serving up tasty local bites.

If you’re after something a bit more laid-back, Vessa’s your spot. It’s this quaint little village, all traditional stone houses and winding streets. It’s like a snapshot of medieval Chios, but without the hustle and bustle.

Now, Volissos – that’s a place with a story. Rumor has it Homer was born here. It’s perched in the northwest and topped off with this amazing Byzantine castle. The views up there? Incredible. And the beaches – Limnos, Lefkathia – are just perfect for a lazy day in the sun.

Kardamyla’s this interesting mix of coastal chill and hillside hustle. Down by the coast, you’ve got Marmaro, and up top, there’s Pano Kardamyla. It’s all about the sea here, with a statue dedicated to the mothers of seafarers.

Then there’s Anavatos. This place is hauntingly beautiful. Perched on a cliff, it’s an abandoned medieval village. The silent stone houses and deserted streets tell a tale of a once-thriving community that met a tragic end.

Close to Chios city, you’ve got Kambos. It’s more an area than a village, famous for its citrus orchards behind tall stone walls and these grand old mansions and estates. It shows off a different side of Chios’ history, all elegant and refined.

Down south, Emporios is this cute little fishing village. It’s got a beach like no other – Mavra Volia, with its black volcanic pebbles. The contrast with the blue sea is something else.

Each of these places adds its own flavor to the island’s character. They’re not just tourist spots; they’re the real deal, steeped in history and tradition. It’s in the buildings, the stories, and the smiles of the people you meet. These villages aren’t just places to visit; they’re experiences to be had, leaving memories that linger long after you’ve left.