CHIOS

Chios (from Greek Χίος), historically known as Scio, is located in the northern Aegean Sea near the Turkish coast (7 nautical miles) and 27 nautical miles from Lesbos. It can be reached both by sea and by air (national airport "Omiros"). The island is 153 nautical miles from Piraeus.

Chios has an area of 842 km² and about 52,000 inhabitants, mostly residing in the southern part of the island.

The interior is characterized by deep green valleys with trees (often pine forests) that extend to the sea. The coasts in the northwest are steep, while in the southeast they are sandy and flat. The highest point reaches 1297 meters above sea level (Mount Pelineo). The island has an excellent climate with abundant rainfall.

Among the main products of Chios is a particular aromatic resin called "mastica" (which in the past brought prosperity to the island), olives, figs, and wine. The presence of a particular type of clay makes Chios ceramics renowned. The island enjoys a certain level of prosperity both due to the presence of many shipowners and the exploitation of mastic, used especially in confectionery, as a burning fragrance, and to produce the famous "raki" liquor (in the past it was chewed by Turkish odalisques as a sort of "chewing gum"). Tourism is therefore not the primary source of wealth, although it is expanding year after year.

The capital is Chios (Chora), where the main port is also located.

The island prides itself on being the birthplace of Homer.

The road network is good and well-developed, radiating out to connect the various centers of the island. Chios has both bus and taxi services and several car and scooter rental agencies.