Sightseeing in Chios - what to see. Complete travel guide

Chios is the capital of the Prefecture of Chios (Greece), which comprises the island of Chios and smaller islands named Psara and Inusses. The city has a seaport and an airport. Chios has a huge importance mostly as a domestic tourist destination. The distance of Chios to Greece slows down the development of international tourism here.

Northern suburb of Chios, Vrontados, is considered the birthplace of Homer. Moreover, this version is confirmed by "Teachers rock” that has been found here.

The island is a real finding for tourists. Beautiful beach island, unbelievably beautiful sceneries of rolling hills and low mountains, the absence of crowds of tourists allow spending a wonderful and a relaxing holiday here. Oros and Pelineon peaks located in the northern part of the island are especially picturesque. Visits to the ancient temple of Apollo, the medieval fortress of the Orthodox Nea Moni monastery (mid-XI century), and to some other attractions will make your rest very interesting.

The greenery of olive groves and vineyards, as well as groves of the famous Aleppo pine tree make the landscape of the island very attractive. Currently major efforts are applied to attract tourists to the island from different countries. The local airport and Chios seaport must contribute to this fact and make this city more famous. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

On the island, there is very interesting Citrus Museum located on the territory of the picturesque exotic garden. The cultivation of citruses has long been one of the main means of the local people’s subsistence. In the museum, you can see a lot of interesting themed exhibits. Its collection also includes agricultural tools used by the natives several hundred years ago, unique historical documents and pictures. After the excursion, the museum visitors can walk along the orchard where you can relax on the terrace and savor fresh orange juice.

Fans of excursions should certainly visit the Argenti Museum named after the famous local historian Philip Argenti. The museum founder dedicated his life to studying the traditions and history of the island. He managed to collect interesting art and ethnographic exhibits. The museum visitors can see beautiful national costumes, craft items and pieces of art. In the museum lobby, the unique collection of old pictures is presented. The museum is located in the same building, as the largest library on the island is.

As for religious attractions, you should pay your attention to the old Panagia Kanala Church located on the hilltop. The exact date of the construction of this tiny church is not known. In the course of archeological researches, it was found out that, during the rule of the Byzantium Empire, the monastery was located in this hilltop. The main religious relic is the icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary aged over a thousand years. The hilltop where the church is located has a breathtaking panoramic view of the island.

In the center of the island, there is the Naval Museum founded not so long ago, in 1991. The museum was founded by the representatives of one of the local rich families. Since its foundation, the museum has been regularly used for organizing conferences and other scientific events. Its main exhibits are models of famous ships. The museum also houses the collection of paintings dedicated to the maritime theme. The museum occupies the beautiful building built in the 19th century. It is a vivid example of the neoclassical style. By visiting the museum, you can learn a lot about the important role of Chios in the trade and shipping development.