Attraction Guide: Mastic Route, Mesta, Greece

Mastic Route Guide

The Mastic Route: A Journey Through Chios' Aromatic Heritage Guide

Embark on a sensory adventure along the Mastic Route, a captivating journey through the "Mastic Villages" of southern Chios, Greece. This unique region is renowned for its cultivation of mastic, a precious resin with a distinctive aroma and a history dating back centuries. Explore the medieval villages, learn about the traditional methods of mastic production, and savor the flavors of this extraordinary ingredient. The Mastic Villages, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a testament to the island's rich cultural heritage. These fortified settlements, built during the Genoese rule of Chios, were designed to protect the valuable mastic crop from pirates and invaders. The villages, such as Pyrgi, Mesta, and Olympi, are characterized by their narrow, winding streets, stone houses, and defensive walls. The cultivation of mastic has been a way of life for the inhabitants of these villages for generations, and the traditional methods are still practiced today. The Mastic Route offers a variety of activities for tourists. Visit the Mastic Museum to learn about the history, cultivation, and uses of mastic. Explore the medieval villages, admire their unique architecture, and wander through the mastic groves. Participate in a mastic harvesting demonstration and learn about the traditional techniques. And, of course, indulge in the culinary delights of the region, which feature mastic in a variety of dishes, from sweets and pastries to liqueurs and savory sauces. Don't miss the opportunity to sample mastic ice cream, a local specialty.