Chios, the Mastic Island

Chios is a beautiful island. It is hospitable and calm. You will find there pleasant beaches, fertile lowlands and steep mountains. The southern part of the island is home to mastic gum.

Chios (Χίος) is one of the largest islands in the northeastern Aegean Sea. With an area of 842 km², Chios is one of the largest islands in Greece. It also includes two smaller islands, Psara and Oinousses

Chios is known for its mild climate, beautiful beaches and many historical monuments. Above all, however, Chios became famous for resin obtained from the bark of the mastic tree, mastic. In its effective form, the mastic tree grows exclusively in the southern part of the island, whose economy, culture and ordinary life are closely related to the mastic. Mastic gum also gave the area its name - Μαστιχοχορια– mastichochoria (mastic villages).

Chios: Facts

The area of the island

842 km²(from south to north the island measures about 60 km)

Population

59,000

Capital

Chios (Chora)

Climate

Mild all year round, very dry in the south, humid in the north in winter.

Nature and vegetation

Very rich flora: Chios is known for many medicinal herbs.

Landmarks

Industry and more:

  • Mastic and mastic products
  • Citrus and citrus juice
  • Shipbuilding and shipping
  • Fishing

The City of Chios

The capital of this island is called Chios, but it is also called Chora. It is on a hill around a large harbor and a castle with massive fortifications.The city is literally full of life. It is full of bars, cafes and restaurants. The harbor promenade, the large square and the Aplotaria shopping street are full of people. The city has a department of the Aegean University and several museums: archeological and Byzantine. If you go to the castle fortress, you will find a dense development of small houses between the winding streets. If you climb up to the wall, you will get a view of the northern suburb of Vrontados.

Chios, the Mastic Island

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