Chios Medieval Villages — Mastic Route
The medieval mastic villages of southern Chios possess unique architectural and cultural heritage found nowhere else in the world. On the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list, these villages have produced mastic tree resin for centuries. You can visit all villages in one day by car.
Pyrgi
Painted Village / ΠυργίUNESCOThe most famous village of Chios. House facades are decorated with unique geometric patterns called 'xysta'. Each house has a different design. The 12th-century Agii Apostoli church sits in the village square. Paradise for photography!
Mesta
ΜεστάUNESCOThe best-preserved medieval village on the island. Labyrinth-like narrow stone streets, arched passages and fortress-like defensive architecture. Excellent tavernas for dinner. Lively nightlife.
Olimpi
ΟλύμποιUNESCOFamous for its natural stalactite cave. The cave can be visited with guided tours. Traditional stone houses and narrow streets within the village.
Armolia
ΑρμόλιαKnown for ceramic production. You can find handmade pottery and ceramic souvenirs. Watch the artisans at work.
Vessa
ΒέσσαAn authentic village surrounded by mastic tree gardens. One of the places where you can see the mastic harvest up close.
Mastic Route — Day Trip Plan
09:00 — Depart from Chios town
09:30 — Armolia (ceramics village, 30 min)
10:30 — Pyrgi (painted village, 1 hour)
12:00 — Olimpi + Cave (1.5 hours)
13:30 — Lunch in Mesta (1 hour)
14:30 — Mesta village tour (1 hour)
16:00 — Swimming at Mavra Volia beach
18:00 — Return
Explore the Mastic Route by Car!
Short distances between villages — all visiteable in one day!
View Cars