Undeniably, the medieval character of the island is the one that excels and impresses. Such samples we meet all over Chios island. Entire villages, from which most important are lived up today, castles, towers and churches, many of these excellent maintained, put the seal of a season that fascinates and carries away. The history of Medieval period lives up here, in the many castles and towers of island that saws the need for the fortification and defense adversely in pirates, invaders and aspiring conquerors.

More specifically, in the years of conquest of Chios from the Genoas (1346-1566), the villages of southern Chios, where the famous chian mastic is produced (Mastichochoria), were organized as settlements fortresses for the defense against the exterior scheming, but also the control of human potential.

The most characteristic samples of this period, we meet in the south and central department of the island, in the settlements Mesta, Olympi, Anavatos, Aygonyma.

Southern Chios is covered with mastic trees -"Skinous" for the locals. Plant that for unknown reason gives his magic "fruit" only in this island in the entire planet. This unique product, which made Chios famous at the antiquity with its magic attributes, is still playing fundamental role in economic and social history of Chios island. 

Before you leave, try it and by the time of your departure take its aroma with you in candies, liqueurs, cosmetics and so many other products!