CHIOS, CRETE

Leaving the port of Chios with our guide we will follow the superb panoramic winding road which climbs the foothills of Mount Provatas. The monastery of Nea Moni which means new monastery in Greek stands in a wooded valley surrounded by cypress trees.

Leaving the port of Chios with our guide we will follow the superb panoramic winding road which climbs the foothills of Mount Provatas. The monastery of Nea Moni which means new monastery in Greek stands in a wooded valley surrounded by cypress trees. New it may have been, but the Monastery dates back to the 11th century when Constantine Monomachos built it. This he did in gratitude to the three local hermits who predicted he would accede to the throne. The architects and painters who constructed this structure were brought from Constantinople and the spot he chose was where a miraculous icon of the Virgin was found. Today, it remains one of the most important buildings of the Byzantine period with religious art executed with paint, inlaid marble and mosaics. The monastery is now a nunnery, having been declared so after World War II. After leaving the monastery we will procced to Avgonima Village where we will have some free time before continuing on our way to visit the medieval village of Anavatos. Anavotos was built on the edge of a cliff and so well in accordance with environment that you can hardly recognise it from a distance. The village is also known as death village as it has been the last shelter of Chios during the Turkish massacre in 1822. On leaving Anavatos we will begin our journey back to our awaiting ship.

Please be aware that currently the Nea Moni Monastery is under construction so an outside visit only will be made, however if this should be finished in time for our visits you are reminded that conservative dress is necessary. Shorts are not allowed and ladies should not wear short skirts. If you are wanting to reach the top of Anavatos there is a steep path of approximately 300 metres to take; therefore comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Some cobblestones will be encountered on this tour.