Daily Excursion to Central Chios

Our first stop will be Nea Moni, the island’s most important Byzantine monument and a village protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded in the 11th century and held a special place because of its art, and because of its direct relationship with Istanbul and the imperial court. According to monastic tradition, Emperor Constantine Monomachus funded the construction of the monastery after the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary was discovered by the three Chian monks Nikitas, Ioannis and Iosif at a myrtle tree in the current location of the monastery.

For many centuries it was the religious and economic centre of Chios, whilst its decline began in the 19th century, initially due to economic difficulties and later following the massacre of 1822. The mosaics of Nea Moni rank among the most significant creations of Byzantine art, thanks to their excellent quality and the fact that they are works by artists associated with the largest workshops in Istanbul.

Our next stop is the medieval village of Anavatos, also known as "the Mystras of the Aegean". An entire village is perched on the top of a hill, on the edge of a cliff. The natural fortification and location suggest that it was initially built for defense purposes, as well as to control of the western coast during the age of piracy. A tour of the fortress-village, whose abandoned stone houses give the impression of a ghost town, and which has been designated as a heritage settlement.

This is followed by a visit to the very well-preserved medieval settlement of Avgonima, with its tall stone houses, narrow alleyways and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Free time for lunch at one of the traditional restaurants.

Continuing our journey and heading westwards down the coastal road and its beautiful shores, we’ll reach Lithi Beach, a large sandy stretch that lies in front of the homonymous cove. Here you can refresh yourself in the calm sea, as well as enjoy the enchanting sunset at one of the seaside tavernas, where you can have lunch instead if you did not have any in Avgonyma. In the afternoon, return to the town centre.