Where is chios island

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Travel Ideas. Eastern Aegean Chios Greece. About Chios, Where is Chios island. Contents hide. Golden Sand Hotel Booking. After the invasion of the Ionians to the region, a shift of power is observed through the existence of prosperous Mycenaean settlements. The largest one is found at Emporio at the southernmost point of the island.

In the coming centuries, the population of island of Chios gradually increased and the inhabitants started expanding their territories and interests by founding colonies to other islands and to the coast of Asia Minor. In the 7th century BC, Chios was included in the Ionian League , a political and religious confederation of twelve Ionian city-states. As a member of the league, Chios developed its trading and economy and it was one of the first city-states that minted coins.

It seems that Chios had adopted a type of regiment that was based on the reformations that Solon introduced in Athens. Steadily, traders from Chios expanded their routes even more even beyond the Greek region since Chian amphoras have been found at locations in Russia and Egypt. During the early years of the 5th century, the Persian Empire invaded the island and subjected it until BC when they revolted and gained their autonomy once again.

Then, Chios joined the Delian League securing its protection from the Persian threat. Generally, the island followed the course of Greek history, meaning that it participated in the Peloponnesian War , got under the influence of Alexander the Great and ultimately was included into the Roman Empire. During Byzantine times, the geographical significance of the island was put in the foreground and a huge defensive construction programme happened, now visible at the Castle of Chios.

This monastery belongs to the UNESCO network of World Heritage Site as a fine example of Byzantine architecture with lavish decoration of exquisite mosaics and frescoes dating to the 11th century.

Even after the fall of the Byzantine empire and the coming of the Ottomans, Chios continued to be an important trading centre of the Aegean Sea. Notably, the 18th century is considered to be the golden age of the island.

Vast amounts of money were accumulated on the island due to the trading activities of the people of Chios in the silk industry, textile trade and of course due to the cultivation of mastic resin. Because of its income, the island had special privileges during the Ottoman rule.

Everything changed though after the Greek War of Independence. Chios joined the Revolution in and the reaction of the Sultan was immediate and brutal. He sent his fleet from Istanbul and 7.

The Ottoman army was burning everything to the ground for 40 days and had specific orders to kill every infant younger than 3 years old, every male person over 12 and every woman over 40 years old. More than This event shook Europe deeply and the famous painter Eugene Delacroix created his masterpiece to honour the people of Chios, the massacre at Chios.

Today the island has recovered demographically and the inhabitants make their living from the traditional cultivation of mastic trees and other activities such as trading, fishing and tourism. Chios is definitely a place of wonder with a vast history and monuments from every time-period. Therefore, those that want to find themselves in a destination off-the-beaten-path and experience a true taste of Greece, Chios island is the place for you to be.

Waste no more time, plan your own visit to the island of Orion or perhaps check out one of our Greece tours. If you are thinking of the island of Chios as your next holiday destination. Homer is the father of ancient Greek literature.

For the ancient Greeks, his works were the very core and essence of their culture, serving as their bonding myths, epic history and a common reference for every Greek regardless of his individual origins. During antiquity, his works Iliad and Odyssey were taught in schools and people always referred to them as exemplary, perfect pieces of literature.

Even though many biographies existed in ancient times, not enough information survived to modern times regarding his life. It is known that seven cities rivalled as his hometown, but today scholars consider the cities of Smyrna and Chios as the best candidates. Homer belonged to the group of the Ionian Greeks and he was the son of Maeon from Smyrna and Critheis. Originally his name was Melisigenis but later on, he was named Homer meaning the one that cannot see because of his blindness.

Others, like Anavatos, Volissos and Chios Town have Medieval castles sitting on the hills above them. The enchanting Chios villages are a must place to visit! If you want to explore further the interesting architecture of Chios, set off to explore the numerous monasteries that are scattered around the island! Explore Chios island through the lens of the talented members on Greeka community.

Share your experience with us or tag us greekacom on your favorite social media. A popular way to reach Chios is by ferry from the port of Piraeus, in Athens.

Chios can also be reached by plane, with daily flights from Athens. Discover the best things to do in Chios! From Chios sightseeing to activities, we give you the best recommendations for the ultimate Chios holidays experience! Upload your best photos of Greece and interact with other Greeka members! Contact us Contact us.

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