Pirgy

Πυργίου

Pyrgi is the mastic capital in the south of Chios island and is located about 25 km from Chios town. It is the largest medieval village of Chios, and also the main village of the Greek island. The traditional decoration on the houses, also called xystra, is unique and makes you feel like you are in another world. Taking a look at the village square of Pyrgi, the white houses with their grey decorations, Theotokos church and the terraces all come together to paint a unique picture. This is a living legend from the Middle Ages.

Mastic capital

Μαστίχα κιονόκρανο

Pyrgi is the mastic capital and has houses with traditional decorations. This is a village with its own ancient traditions and sights.

You can see the bell tower located in the central village square from a great distance, rising above all buildings. There used to be another tower next to it, and this used to have a total height of 18 m and acted as a lookout post and protection. Unfortunately, the tower and its buildings are no longer intact. The Turks and the earthquake of 1881 destroyed a large part. In 1937, the municipality decided to demolish the top three metres of the tower due to its poor condition. However, the church with its bell tower has been completely restored and is in a very good condition.

Pyrgi is a labyrinth of narrow streets, old buildings with flat roofs, and whitewashed houses with beautiful decorations in natural tones. It is certainly a medieval town full of surprises.

The xystra murals and decorations are made by artists nowadays, as well as craftsmen who have mastered the decorative decorations. The black, grey or a brown tint patterns are all straight and horizontal.

Mastic Villages

The island for everyone

νησί για όλους

Chios has everything, tourist-friendly or quiet beaches, a bustling capital, and quiet villages, culture, history and lots of fun. There is plenty to do for young and old on Chios. Now is your chance to experience it all from your own holiday home.

Warm, inviting and Cultural

Κάνε το όνειρό σου πραγματικότητα

The only real mastic museum was opened in Pyrgi in May 2016. It is housed in a modern building in the hills just outside the village, and it boasts a beautiful view over Pyrgi. The mastic museum gives you a good idea of how mastic is extracted and what it is used for. The museum in Pyrgi is open daily.

Pyrgi is an old village, but it does have modern amenities. There is always something to do on the warm and welcoming village square. You can take in the authentic Greek atmosphere while enjoying a snack or drink and listening to the music that is often played. You may even be treated to a wedding or other local party, and as a foreigner you will immediately be welcomed to join in.