Nea Moni
Chios
Copyright: John Karakatsanis/Wikimedia CommonsNea Moni
"New Monastery" is a misnomer – this imposing religious institution was founded in the 11th century by the Byzantine Emperor Constanine IX Monomachos. It is, perhaps, the finest religious building in the Aegean islands, with mosaics that date back to the golden age of Byzantine religious art.
Do & See
Chios Town (also referred to as ‘Chora') is a surprisingly modern city. With a crescent harbour overlooked by office blocks, warehouses and workshops; it is dominated by the forbidding walls of the Kastro. This Genoese castle partially encloses an old quarter of narrow streets, tall stone houses with wrought iron balconies and shuttered windows, and drinking fountains bearing Koranic inscriptions that hint at their Turkish ancestry. There is plenty to do on and around the island - from active pursuits to sightseeing, or simply relaxing on the beach.