Pirgi

Location

Pirgi was named after the central tower of the village, which is still well preserved. This is the largest and, for many, one of the most important villages in 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 still survive until today.

Pirgi is a medieval village, with stone houses joined together 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 Aghioi Apostoloi (Saints Apostles), built in the 12th century and an identical replica of Nea Moni.

Another holy sight is the St. George Monastery, which was established 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.