Pyrgi

Location

Pyrgi is the largest of the villages in Mastichochoria (southern part of Chios where the mastic is produced).

The village was named after the well preserved tower in its center. It is the largest and, for many, one of the most important villages of all Chios. It is also called "the painted village" because of its unique architectural designs known as 'xysta' (facade decoration with geometric and natural motifs) that are still intact today.

Pyrgi is a medieval village, with serried stone houses and beautiful balconies, ornamented with 'xysta' and small dried tomatoes hanging from them. Some of the features that compose the character of the village are the narrow streets and the 'doxharades' and 'skepastra' (geometrically designed wall-embellishments). Besides there are also some remarkable churches such as the church of "Agios Apostoles" (Saint Apostoles), built in the 12th century and an identical replica of the famous monastery Nea Moni, located in the center of Chios.

Another holy sight is the "St. George Monastery", which was founded in the 19th century. The 'xenon' or guesthouse is known for its traditional xysta designs that depict Adam and Eve. It houses two monks.

This village is also known because the large amount of mastic produced. Their inhabitants, however, are also occupied with horticulture and tourism, and there is even a Women's Handicraft Society.