The village of Armolia is located on the main crossroads to the mastiha villages of the south. It lies twenty kilometers from the town of Chios on a fertile plain. The people of Armolia maintain a long tradition in ceramic pottery, one of the oldest and most widespread of the decorative arts, consisting of objects made of clay and hardened with heat.

The main road at the entrance of the village is lined with pottery shops. Most of the shop owners continue the family tradition, creating traditional items just as their parents. Plus they are painting their creations both in traditional and modern designs and colours.

On your next visit at the mastiha villages discover the permanent exhibitions of hand-crafted ceramics and do not miss a visit at their wokshops where you can see yourself the potters working at the wheels showing how a lump of clay is transformed into a finished piece of pottery.

Tip: Armolia is a very beautiful village, spend some extra time wandering through the narrow streets and stop for a coffee, food or even a sweet at the exquisite pastry shop situated at the entrance of the village

An exhibition of books on theatre and other findings from the archives of Koraes Public Library of Chios.

The Friends of Koraes Library have organises an exhibition of books and other findings from the Koraes archive on theatre, in the context of the 30ths Meeting of the Aegean Theatre Groups. The exhibition opened on Sunday October 30th, 2018 at the Library and it will be open to visitors through the autumn. Thus the Library, a pillar of knowledge, is actively participating in this celebration of theatre that is taking place in our island. 

This is an exciting exhibition of old editions of ancient writers (some dating back to 1524 and unique in Europe), the works of local intellectual Leon Allatios, first translations in modern greek and many more. It also includes old programmes from theatrical performances. 

It becomes apparent that the rich archives of Koraes library still keep many secrets that have to be explored by visitors, readers and researchers. 

The exhibition will be open from Monday to Friday from 8.00 to 15.00.

Walking in Chios Castle is like time travel. Let’s get lost in the narrow spiral alleys marked by history and time. Although in the city center, everything here is tranquil, while at the same time it is one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods of the city. Every time we walk around Chios Castle there is something new to discover.

We enter the Castle via the Great Entrance at the south part of the castle. Also known as “Porta Maggiore”, it is an example of the Italian influence on Chios island, as it was built by the Venetians in 1694.

Next to the Dark Dungeon, the Giustiniani palace was the headquarters of the Genovese administration. Today, after its renovation, it hosts periodical exhibitions by the Ephorate of Antiquities.

The Ottoman cemetery is located at the Castle square, where members of the Ottoman administration were buried between 1822 and 1890. Among other elaborate tombstones we can see the one dedicated to Captain Pasha Kara Ali, head of the Turkish navy, whose flagship was set on fire by Constantine Kanaris, at Chios port, in June 1822.

Bairakli Cami, the only surviving mosque in Chios Castle, was built at the beginning of the 20^th century on the ruins of an older one. Walking on the main street, St. George is the central church of Chios Castle. It was built in 993 A.D. and during the ottoman times it operated as a mosque. The church’s courtyard is shared with the building of the old ottoman school which has now been restored and serves as the offices of the Ephorate of Antiquities.

Our next stop is the group of the Ottoman Baths, also known as hammam. They were successfully restored in 2012 and have since become one of the most impressive buildings one can visit in the Castle. Cultural events and exhibitions are often held there. 

Walking on after the baths, we can walk up to the eastern Castle Seawall. We can enjoy the view of the Aegean and the island’s east coastline. From this point, we can get a better sense of the size and shape of the castle as well as experiencing walking on the walls of one of the few castles of Greece that has retained its original seaside character.

Back to the Castle square, we can enjoy our coffee or drink at one of the cafes. In the streets of the Castle, we discover the traditional taverns to relax with a couple of local meze and ouzo – admittedly the best way to end this beautiful day at Chios Castle.

Kampos is one of the most distinctive areas in Chios. It is a unique residential complex, where the natural environment is in total harmony with the local architecture. Touring by bicycle is an ideal way to explore this hidden paradise.

Bike through narrow quiet streets, sweet-smelling citrus groves, high stone walls and beautiful historical mansions. Discover picturesque chapels and huge garden doors. Slow down and enjoy the surrounding landscape and have in mind that some of the estates are open to the public, giving the visitor the chance to experience first hand the beauties that are hidden by the high stone walls: imposing mansions, patterned pebbled yards, elaborate wells and cisterns.

Stop at the Citrus estate (9-11 Argenti Str. Kampos,), a stunning expanse that dates from 1742, that is also home to a museum dedicated to the area’s history and learn about the fascinating past and exciting future of Kampos’ citrus tradition. Have a rest at the estate’s café where you can try citrus juices and traditional sweets. Kampos area is flat so beginners can also enjoy the ride. You can organise the tour yourself (be sure you have a map on you - plus there are signs with maps to help you) or you can take part at a biking tour of a local agency.If you need any help just get in touch with us. Send us an email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Managros beach is one of the most impressive beaches of Chios island and August is the month to be there.

Located 3.7 km south of Volissos village, the capital of Amani area and north-west Chios, it is a sandy and pebbled beach of 7 km, with crystal clear, not too deep waters. The length of the beach allows you privacy even on busy days. The trees that are scattered along the beach offer lovely shade.

An early morning dip in the sea will invigorate you and help you relax on the beach gathering sun and enjoying the morning breeze.

Managros is the kind of beach that holds you, keeps you close, you never want to leave once you are there. For those in need of facilities, there is a beach bar at the northern part of the beach with sunbeds and tasty cocktails.

You will enjoy unforgettable sunsets at Managros and also lie on your back at night for endless stargazing.