January 2008 Newsletter
 This Month
New music, DVDs, books, and calendars Special Feature : Traditional Greek Breads
Recent Arrivals and Featured New Additions Featured Destination: Chios
Saint Namedays in January January's Recipe: Vasilópita (Greek New Year's Bread) 
Suggestions & Comments Subscription Information

January's Recipe:
Vasilópita

Traditional Greek New Year Bread
 

Ingredients:
- 8 1/2 c. wheat flour
- 2 Tbs. baking powder
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 c. + 2Tbs. butter - soft
- 2 1/4 c. sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 c. milk
- 1 grated lemon rind
- confectioner's sugar


Preparation:

Sift flour, baking powder, and salt into bowl. Cream together the softened butter and sugar, and beat the eggs into the mixture one at a time. Gradually stir in the milk and the flour. Mix to a smooth dough, and flavor with grated lemon rind. Preheat over to 350 °F. Line a 12-inch pan with with baking parchment, put in the dough, smooth it over, and bake in preheated oven for 40 minutes, until the cake begins to brown. Turn out the cake, allow it to cool, and dust with confectioner's sugar and nuts. Finally, hide a Flouri coin in it from underneath.


New Year
New Year's Cake
Gold Coin Replica
Flouri for Vasilopita

Agios Vasilios
Agios Vasilios
St. Basil the Great
Name Day: January 1


 
Excerpts from: "Culinaria Greece"
by Marianthi Milona
 
Special Feature
Traditional Greek Breads

Vasilópita (New Year's Bread) is a sweet nut cake with a coin hidden inside, traditionally served on New Year's Eve, when families honor St. Vasilios (Santa Claus), who comes down to earth on that day. Vasilópita can be made as a Madeira sponge or a puff pastry pastry cake with nuts, or in a savory version with meat. A coin is hidden inside the cake after baking, and the cake is cut on New Year's Eve, with all the family present. The pieces are distributed in a predetermined order: the first is for Christ, the second for Mary, the third is for St. Vasilios, the fourth for the house, the fifth for the head of the family, the sixth for the mother, then one for each of the children. A piece is also cut for each absent member of the family. Whoever finds the coin can look forward to special success in the coming year.


 
Litouryá (Altar Bread) is another famous Greek bread, which is uniquely pressed with a large circular stamp detailing a Byzantine cross with the letters standing for Yisús Christós Niká (Jesus Christ is victorious). After baking, the bread is traditionally brought to church to be blessed during the liturgy. Served with wine to represent the blood of Christ, this bread represents the living body of Christ. Purchase your own Litouryá stamp by clicking below!

Holy Bread Seal - Prosforo Plastic Stamp
Holy Bread Seal - Prosforo Plastic Stamp
 
Holy Bread Seal - Prosforo Wood Stamp
Holy Bread Seal -
Prosforo Wood Stamp

  What's New!
  Recent Arrivals & Featured New Additions
 

Glass Pomegranate Good Luck Ornaments (Gouri)


Glass Pomegranate Good Luck Ornament (Gouri) - 3.5" red round
Pomegranate
3.5" Red Round

 

Glass Pomegranate Good Luck Ornament (Gouri) - 3.5" blue round
Pomegranate
3.5" Blue Round

Glass Pomegranate Good Luck Ornament (Gouri) - 4" red flat back
Pomegranate
4" Red Flat Back

Glass Pomegranate Good Luck Ornament (Gouri) - 3.5" brown round
Pomegranate
3.5" Brown Round

 

Glass Pomegranate Good Luck Ornament (Gouri) - 3.5" red flat back
Pomegranate
3.5" Red Flat Back

The Greek History & Tradition of the Pomegranate:
The traditional folk decoration of Greek homes, the pomegranate is cherished as a symbol of joyous times and good fortune, as well as of fertility and prosperity. This veneration of the fruit is rooted in ancient times, and this once ancient practice continues today, finding new meaning in every household. The pomegranate was a magical fruit in Greek mythology, and was associated with three Gods: Demeter, Aphrodite, and Hera. Aphrodite, the Goddess of Beauty, was according to myth the first to plant the pomegranate tree, on Cyprus. Not only the ancient Greeks, but rather all of the peoples of the East venerated the pomegranate. In their religious ceremonies the ancient Egyptians offered pomegranates to their Gods. According to the Bible, King Solomon maintained a garden full of pomegranate trees, and, finally, the Prophet Mohammed wrote in the Koran, “The pomegranate purifies the body of jealousy and hate.” Through the artistry and craftsmanship of Epalladio, the pomegranate, this ancient symbol of joy, can again bring such health and good fortune to today’s homes.

         
Ancient Greek Alabaster Statues

Hippocrates Alabaster Statue

Hippocrates
Alabaster Statue

 

Discus Athlete Alabaster Statue

Discus Athlete
Alabaster Statue
 

Plato Alabaster Statue

Plato
Alabaster Statue

Athena Alabaster Statue

Athena
Alabaster Statue
 
 Music
Mario Frangoulis, Passione:A tribute to Mario Lanza

Mario Frangoulis,
Passione:
A tribute to Mario Lanza
Heaven 2008 + Bonus DVD (PAL) 17 Super hits

Heaven 2008
+ Bonus DVD (PAL)
17 Super hits

 
Legend 2008 (2CD)

Legend 2008 (2CD))
Hrises Epitihies 2008 (2CD) - 28 Super Hits

Hrises Epitihies 2008
(2CD) - 28 Super Hits
Minos 2008 (2 CD)

Minos 2008 (2 CD)
Lefteris Pantazis, Eho Trelani To Theo

Lefteris Pantazis,
Eho Trelani To Theo
 
Themis Adamantidis, Tsifetelia & Sirta (2CD)

Themis Adamantidis, Tsifetelia & Sirta (2CD)
Giorgos Mazonakis, Ta Ohi Ke Ta Ne Mou

Giorgos Mazonakis,
Ta Ohi Ke Ta Ne Mou

 
Nikos Kourkoulis, Toses Meres Toses Nihtes

Nikos Kourkoulis,
Toses Meres Toses Nihtes

 
Dimitris Basis, H Zoi Allou Se Paei

Dimitris Basis,
H Zoi Allou Se Paei
Vasilis Karras, Ola Mou Ta Hronia Live + 3 New Tracks

Vasilis Karras,
Ola Mou Ta Hronia Live
+ 3 New Tracks
 
John Greek 88.6 Ligo Prin Ximerosi (2CD)

John Greek 88.6
Ligo Prin Ximerosi
(2CD)
Eleni Vitali, Oi Megaliteres Epitihes Tis

Eleni Vitali,
Oi Megaliteres
Epitihes Tis
Akis Panou, Oi Megaliteres Epitihies Tou

Akis Panou,
Oi Megaliteres
Epitihies Tou
Poli Panou, Oi Megaliteres Epitihies Tis

Poli Panou,
Oi Megaliteres
Epitihies Tis
Hristos Nikolopoulos, Pexe Hristo Vol. 1

Hristos Nikolopoulos,
Pexe Hristo - 2 CD Box Set (Vol. 1 and 2)

Hristos Nikolopoulos, Pexe Hristo Vol. 2

Hristos Nikolopoulos,
Pexe Hristo Vol. 2

 
Pashalis Terzis, Hrises Epitihies - 12 classic hits

Pashalis Terzis,
Hrises Epitihies -
12 classic hits
Pashalis Terzis, H Diafora

Pashalis Terzis,
H Diafora

 
Pashalis Terzis, Pashalis Terzis Live - 48 Hits (2 CD)

Pashalis Terzis,
Pashalis Terzis Live -
48 Hits (2 CD)

 
Hriso Paketo 2008 (2CD)

Hriso Paketo 2008
(2CD)

 
Panos Kiamos, Girna de Mena

Panos Kiamos,
Girna de Mena
Nino, Thavmata

Nino,
Thavmata
 
Nancy Alexiadi, Afta Pou Iha Oneirefti

Nancy Alexiadi,
Afta Pou Iha Oneirefti
Nikos Portokaloglou, Ektos Shediou (2CD)

Nikos Portokaloglou,
Ektos Shediou (2CD)
Giorgos Tsalikis, Enoha Vradia

Giorgos Tsalikis,
Enoha Vradia
 
Evridiki , Best Of Evridiki ( 2-CD Special Edition)

Evridiki , Best Of Evridiki
( 2-CD Special Edition)
Kostas Karafotis, Den Ipohoro

Kostas Karafotis,
Den Ipohoro
Aggeliki Iliadi, Pote Den Efiges

Aggeliki Iliadi,
Pote Den Efiges
Tasos Bougas, Ke Egine To Bam

Tasos Bougas,
Ke Egine To Bam

 
Sabrina, Iperparagogi

Sabrina,
Iperparagogi

 
Dimitris Kokotas, Ama Den Se Do Apopse

Dimitris Kokotas,
Ama Den Se Do Apopse

 
Haris Alexiou, Odeio Irodou Attikou 2007 Live (2CD)

Haris Alexiou, Odeio Irodou Attikou 2007 Live (2CD)
 
Panos Psaltis, Aggele Mou + bonus DVD

Panos Psaltis,
Aggele Mou + bonus DVD
Hrispa, Kathreftis

Hrispa, Kathreftis
 
Alkisti Protopsalti, Sto Oreotero Simio

Alkisti Protopsalti,
Sto Oreotero Simio
 
Elli Kokkinou, Eilikrina

Elli Kokkinou,
Eilikrina
Andrianna Babali, Des Kathara

Andrianna Babali, Des Kathara
Dimitris Kontolazos, 40 best of Ta Tragoudia Mias Zois (2CD)

Dimitris Kontolazos,
40 best of Ta Tragoudia
Mias Zois (2CD)

 
Spasta Vol. 2 by John the Greek 88.6 2-CD set

Spasta Vol. 2 by John the Greek 88.6 2-CD set
 
Fani Drakopoulou - Debut Album

Fani Drakopoulou - Debut Album
 
Stella Georgiadou, Se Orea Trella

Stella Georgiadou, Se Orea Trella
Notis Sfakianakis, Mnimes

Notis Sfakianakis,
Mnimes
Mihalis Hatziyiannis, Live Sto Likavito 2007 (cd+dvd PAL)

Mihalis Hatziyiannis,
Live Sto Likavito 2007
CD+DVD (PAL)
Sakis Rouvas, I Megaliteres Epitihies (3CD + DVD)

Sakis Rouvas,
I I Megaliteres Epitihies (3CD + DVD)
 
Marinella Remos & Antonis Remos, Marinella - Antonis Remos LIVE (2CD)

Marinella & Antonis Remos, LIVE (2CD)
 
Eleana Papaioannou, Erotas

Eleana Papaioannou,
Erotas
Peggy Zina, Trexe

Peggy Zina,
Trexe

 
Giorgos Alkeos, Eleftheros

Giorgos Alkeos,
Eleftheros
Anna Vissi, Complete EMI Years - Back to Time

Anna Vissi, Complete EMI Years - Back to Time
Nikos Vertis, Mono gia Sena CD w/ bonus DVD (PAL)

Nikos Vertis,
Mono gia Sena
CD + DVD (PAL)
Yiannis Tassios, Tha mou Kanis Kala

Yiannis Tassios,
Tha mou Kanis Kala
Parathisos Summer 2007 - 24 Greek and English Dance Hits

Parathisos Summer 2007 -
24 Greek and English
Dance Hits
Haris & Panos Katsimihas, Mousiki Aftoviografia (4CD + 2DVD)

Haris & Panos Katsimihas, Mousiki Aftoviografia
(4CD + 2DVD)

 
Ela Sto Party Summer 2007 - Compiled by Marios Papadopoulos and Tim Spiratos

Ela Sto Party Summer 2007 - Compiled by Marios Papadopoulos
Apostolia Zoi, Apo Do Ke Pera

Apostolia Zoi, Apo Do Ke Pera
Sfinakia Summer 2007 - Compiled by Marios Papadopoulos

Sfinakia Summer 2007 - Compiled by Marios Papadopoulos
Kolasi 2008

Kolasi 2008
Etsi 4 - Compiled and Mixed by DJ Angelo

Etsi 4 - Compiled and Mixed by DJ Angelo

 
Gia Ta Panigiria (2CD) - 48 horeftika (various artists)

Gia Ta Panigiria (2CD) -
48 horeftika (various artists)
Cretan Songs & Dances Vol. 21: Instrumental, by Vasilis Skoulas

Cretan Songs & Dances Vol. 21: Instrumental, by Vasilis Skoulas
 
Aliki Vougiouklaki, Aliki Vougiouklaki 1958-1996 (4CD) 80 of her classics

Aliki Vougiouklaki 1958-1996 (4CD) 80 of her classics

 
Sofia Vembo, H Foni Tis Elladas (4CD)

Sofia Vembo, H Foni Tis Elladas (4CD)
Mikis Theodorakis, O Mousikos Kosmos Tou Miki Theodoraki (5CD)

Mikis Theodorakis, O Mousikos Kosmos Tou Miki Theodoraki (5CD)

 
Giorgos Zambetas, Anthologia 1925-1992 (4CD)

Giorgos Zambetas,
 Anthologia 1
925-1992 (4CD)
Sotiria Bellou and Marika Ninou, Anthologia Megales Rebetisses (4CD)

Sotiria Bellou and Marika Ninou, Anthologia Megales Rebetisses (4CD)
Mary Linda, Perasmenes Mou Agapes (2CD)

Mary Linda, Perasmenes Mou Agapes (2CD)

 
Dimitris Hionas, Proti Parousia - 12 great instrumentals

Dimitris Hionas,
Proti Parousia -
12 great instrumentals
Kostas Papadopoulos, Bouzouxides No.1 - solo bouzouki

Kostas Papadopoulos, Bouzouxides No.1 -
solo bouzouki

 
Kostas Papadopoulos, Bouzouxides No. 2 - solo bouzouki

Kostas Papadopoulos, Bouzouxides No. 2 -
solo bouzouki
Manolis Mitsias, 40 Hronia Manolis Mitsias 1969-1998 (4CD) 100 + 1 greatest hits

Manolis Mitsias, 40 Hronia 1969-1998 (4CD)
100 + 1 greatest hits
Manolis Hiotis, Apo Tis 78 Strofes (2CD)

Manolis Hiotis,
Apo Tis 78 Strofes (2CD)
Manolis Aggelopoulos, Apo Tis 78 Strofes

Manolis Aggelopoulos,
Apo Tis 78 Strofes
 
Vaggelis Perpiniadis, Apo Tis 78 Strofes (2CD)

Vaggelis Perpiniadis,
Apo Tis 78 Strofes (2CD)

 
Grigoris Bithikotsis, Apo Tis 78 Strofes (2CD)

Grigoris Bithikotsis, Apo Tis 78 Strofes (2CD)

 DVDs

Hercules (Irakles) - Disney Classic in Greek - DVD (Pal Zone & Zone 2)

Hercules (Irakles)
Disney Classic in Greek
DVD (Pal Zone 2)

 
Athens, The Dawn of Democracy (PBS Home Video)

Athens, The Dawn of Democracy (PBS Home Video)
Mediterraneo (1991) - PAL - DVD zone 2

Mediterraneo (1991) -
PAL - DVD zone 2

 

H Mikri Arahni Ke Alla Tragoudia DVD - greek children

H Mikri Arahni Ke Alla Tragoudia DVD - greek children's songs
 
Bad Wolf & the Seven Little Lambs / Return of Kadison te Smart Donkey - DVD in Greek (Pal Zones)

Bad Wolf & Seven Little Lambs / Kadison the Smart Donkey - DVD in Greek (Pal Zones)
 
SpongeBob Volume 1 : Kinigi Ston Vitho DVD (PAL)

SpongeBob Volume 1 : Kinigi Ston Vitho
DVD (PAL)

 
SpongeBob Volume 2: Spiti Mou Ananaki Mou DVD (PAL)

SpongeBob Volume 2:
Spiti Mou Ananaki Mou
DVD (PAL)
SpongeBob Volume 3: Ipallilos Tou Mina DVD (PAL)

SpongeBob Volume 3: Ipallilos Tou Mina
DVD (PAL)
SpongeBob Volume 4 : Kopsimo Karate DVD (PAL)

SpongeBob Volume 4 : Kopsimo Karate
DVD (PAL)
 
SpongeBob Volume 5 : Aaargh! DVD (PAL)

SpongeBob Volume 5 : Aaargh!
DVD (PAL)
O Yiannis Takane Thalassa (PAL) - DVD zone 2

O Yiannis Takane Thalassa (PAL) - DVD zone 2
H Pehnidiara (PAL) - DVD 2 zone

H Pehnidiara (PAL) - DVD 2 zone
Tis Leoforos Tis Prodosias (PAL) DVD - zone 2

Tis Leoforos Tis Prodosias (PAL) DVD - zone 2
Mia Italida Stin Ellada (PAL) - DVD zone 2

Mia Italida Stin Ellada (PAL) - DVD zone 2
 
Enas Apentaros Lefas (PAL) - DVD zone 2

Enas Apentaros Lefas
(PAL) - DVD zone 2
 
Oi 900 Tis Marinas (PAL) - DVD zone 2

Oi 900 Tis Marinas
(PAL) - DVD zone 2

 
Ena Asilipto Koroido (PAL) - DVD zone 2

Ena Asilipto Koroido
(PAL) - DVD zone 2
Afti Pou Den Ligise (PAL) DVD - zone 2

Afti Pou Den Ligise
(PAL) DVD - zone 2e 2
 
Alter Ego (PAL) - DVD zone 2

Alter Ego (PAL)
- DVD zone 2
 
80s Cult Classic DVDs, Ta Tsakalia (PAL) - DVD zone 2

80s Cult Classic DVDs,
Ta Tsakalia
(PAL))

H Megali Apofraxi (PAL) - DVD zone 2

H Megali Apofraxi (PAL) - DVD zone 2
80s Cult Classic DVDs, Oi Epikindini (PAL) - DVD zone 2

80s Cult Classic DVDs,
Oi Epikindini
(PAL)
 
80s Cult Classic DVDs, O Diavolos Ke H Oura Tou -  (PAL)

80s Cult Classic DVDs,
O Diavolos Ke H Oura Tou - (PAL)
 
Trellos Ke Pasis Ellados (PAL) - DVD zone 2

Trellos Ke Pasis Ellados
(PAL) - DVD zone 2
80s Cult Classic DVDs, Ela N

80s Cult Classic DVDs, Ela N'Agapithoume Darling - (PAL)
 Books & Calendars
Greece - An Odyssey to the Land of Light Wall Calendar (16-mo)

Greece - An Odyssey
to the Land of Light
16-mo Wall Calendar
Greek Isles 2008 12 mo. Wall Calendar

Greek Isles 2008
12 mo. Wall Calendar
Greek Isles mini 12 mo 2008 Calendar

Greek Isles mini 12 mo 2008 Calendar
Cats of the Greek Isles 2008 12mo. Calendar

Cats of the Greek Isles 2008 12mo. Calendar
H gynaika tis sofitas, by Chrissa Dimoulidou (in Greek)

H gynaika tis sofitas,
by Chrissa Dimoulidou
(in Greek)
Ti mera pou se gnorisa, by Lena Manta (in Greek)

Ti mera pou se gnorisa,
by Lena Manta (in Greek)
Min Pirovolite ti nifi , by Chrisa Dimolidou (In Greek)

Min Pirovolite ti nifi , by Chrisa Dimolidou (In Greek)
 
Growing up Greek in St. Louis, by Aphrodite Matsakis, Ph.D (in English)

Growing up Greek in St. Louis, by Aphrodite Matsakis, Ph.D (in English)
Ellada Mou Patrida Mou (Arcadia, My Arcadia), by Nicholas Kokonis (in Greek)

Ellada Mou Patrida Mou (Arcadia, My Arcadia), by Nicholas Kokonis (in Greek)
The Summer of My Greek Taverna (by Tom Stone) in English

The Summer of My Greek Taverna (by Tom Stone)
in English
Ehis ena Gramma apo ton Ai Vasili, by Evi Mavromatidou (In Greek)

Ehis ena Gramma apo
ton Ai Vasili, by Evi Mavromatidou (In Greek)

 
Mia Fora kai ena kairo sti Vithleem - Christmas popup book (In Greek)

Mia Fora kai ena kairo
sti Vithleem - Christmas popup book (In Greek)
Not Even My Name, by Thea Halo (in English)

Not Even My Name,
by Thea Halo
(in English)
Greece Land of Light, by Nicholas Gage and Barry Brukoff (in English)

Greece Land of Light, by Nicholas Gage and Barry Brukoff (in English)
At Home in Greece, by Julia Klimi (in English)

At Home in Greece,
by Julia Klimi (in English)
The Penguin Historical Atlas of Ancient Greece (by Robert Morkot) in English

The Penguin Historical Atlas of Ancient Greece (by Robert Morkot) in English

 
The Best of Greek Cuisine (in English)

The Best of Greek Cuisine
(in English)
Greek Gastronomy - 34 Greek Chefs Create

Greek Gastronomy
- 34 Greek Chefs Create
Hellas Alive: The Best Bar Restaurants

Hellas Alive: The Best
Bar Restaurants
Hellas Alive: The Best Restaurants

Hellas Alive: The Best
Restaurants

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince in Greek

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince in Greek
 

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in Greek

Harry Potter and the
Deathly Hallows (in Greek)
 More Additions!!
Greek Name Mug Cups Classic Design

Greek Name Mug Cups Classic Design
Venizelos Coffee - Net Wt. 454 Gr.

Venizelos Coffee
Net Wt. 454 Gr.
Monastiri Greek Traditional Bitter Orange Preserves (Neratzaki)

Monastiri Greek Traditional Bitter Orange Preserves (Neratzaki)
 
Waving Greek Flag Magnet

Waving Greek
Flag Magnet
Greek Aromatic Soap Gift Package (4 bars)

Greek Aromatic Soap Gift Package (4 bars)
 
  Featured Destination: Chios

 
Geography:
South of Lesbos (27 nautical miles) lies one of the most beautiful isles of the Aegean, Chios. It covers an area of 842 sq. km., has 213 km. of coastline and a population of 48,700. Chios is a separate Prefecture including the smaller islands of Oinouses, Psara, Antipsara and Pasas. It is 146 nautical miles from Piraeus with which there is a daily car and passenger ferry link. Once a week the boat on the Piraeus - Kavala route calls there, connecting Chios with Thessaloniki. There are also links with Lesbos, Syros and, again via the Kavala - Piraeus line, with the Dodecanese, Crete and the Cyclades. There is a local service to Psara, Oinouses and, in the summer, to Qesme in Turkey. Daily flights to and from Athens. The island's terrain is semi-mountainous (highest peak Pelinaios, 1297 m. a.s.l.) with several valleys intersecting the mountain ridges. The coast follows the configuration of the ground, steep rocky cliffs in the west and north and flat, sandy shores in the south and east. The mild climate, verdant vegetation, traditional villages and many monuments attract an ever-increasing number of visitors, even though tourist facilities are not particularly developed. The east and southeast parts of the island are the most densely populated and more villages are concentrated there, whereas the north is only sparsely settled.

Story: In antiquity the island was known as Makre and Pityousa, and has been inhabited since prehistoric times. In the 8th century BC Ionian colonizers settled here, developing a significant civilization so that the island's floruit endured until the 6th century BC. During e Persian Wars Chios was captured by the enemy, afterwards it joined the Athenian League and then passed to the Macedonians. It was eventually taken by the Romans. In Byzantine times it belonged to the Thema of the Aegean and, like all the islands, was a victim of constant piratical attacks. It was a bone of Mention between the Venetians and Latin emperors and in 1344 passed to the Genoese, under whom it experienced a new period of acme, commercial and economic, mainly due its monopoly in the trade of mastic. It was ruled by several noble families, the most important being the Giustiniani. In 1566 Chios was captured by the Turks, who granted it special privileges which prevailed— until the 1821 War of Independence. In 1822 the Chiotes were massacred by the Turks, which event, along with the later earthquake in 1881, wrought the destruction of many of the island's monuments. Chios was liberated in 1911 and incorporated in the Greek state. Adamantios Korais and Yannis Psycharis were both from Chios.

Sights-Monuments: The island's capital, Chios is also its main port and is located more or less in the middle of the east coast of the island. The oldest quarter is that around the castle, built in Byzantine times (10th century), many Genoese and Turkish influences are also preserved. In addition to sections of the ramparts, towers and a gate are also preserved. The wall was separated from the harbor by a moat, which no longer exists. Within the walls is the old Turkish quarter, ruins of the Giustiniani palace, the mausoleum of the Turkish admiral, Kara Ali, who ordered the 1822 massacre, a Byzantine chapel, Byzantine cistern and Turkish baths. Notable monuments in the town include the Early Christian basilica of St. Isidore, in which a significant 7th century mosaic floor was found, and the cathedral (metropolis). In the Korais library, one of the finest in Greece, there is a collection of rare books and manuscripts and, on the second floor, the Philippos Argentis collection of folk art is displayed. There is also an Art Gallery and Archaeological Museum in which finds and coins from excavations throughout the island are exhibited.

South of the town of Chios (6 km.) is Kampos, a particularly beautiful region with richly planted orchards and mansions set in their midst, the summer residences of the island's leading families. Most of them date from the 18th century and their architecture has distinct Genoese influences. Nowadays many have been abandoned but that on the Argentis estate has been restored and is in good condition, as is the Kazanova mansion near the torrent of Kokala, the Mavrokordatos residence at Frangovouni and those of the Zygomalas (Merminga) and Kaloutas families. Further south, near the village of Vavyloi, stands the Byzantine church of the Virgin of Krina, a 12th century building in which three layers of wall ¬paintings have been revealed. Also in the vicinity is the Genoese settlement of Sklavia where there are remains of medieval houses and churches. Close to the village of Aghios Georgios Sykousis stands the church of that name, in its present form a 19th century structure, but originally built in the 12th century. Continuing southwards, at the village of Kallimasia, on a knoll beside the Zevoi tower, stands the 13th century church of the Virgin of Sicily. There is another Byzantine church of St. John Argentis (14th century), in which notable wall-paintings can be seen, at Katarraktis, 15 km. south of Chios. At Nenitas (19 km. south of Chios) is the monastery of the Taxiarchs and at Kalamoti (20 km. south of Chios) the important monument known as the Virgin of Agrelopos (basilica in the orientalising order) in which there are 14th century wall paintings. To the north (approx. 2 km.), near e village of Armolia, in a moderately good ate of preservation, is the Kastro Apolychon, one of the major fortresses on the island, built in 1440.

In this part of southern Chios there is a considerable number of medieval villages, founded the 14th and 15th century, of outstanding architectural interest since they are built like dresses and the houses are mainly of medieval aspect. These villages were fortified against piratical raids and in order to facilitate better exploitation of mastic, they were also ¬known as the Mastichochoria. Most of the ages were destroyed or damaged in the 1 earthquake and their character altered. Pyrgi and Mesta are the best-preserved. Pyrgi km. south of Chios) is a scheduled village (state protected) with a distinctly medieval appearance, the house facades being embeled with geometric and linear designs, and fortress-like atmosphere. The central fortification ¬with its large tower still stands, as well as important churches: Holy Apostles and Dormition, and a Folk Art Museum. South of Pyrgi, at Dotia an interesting Genoese tower survived. 9 km. southeast of Pyrgi at Emion, excavations conducted by the British School of Archaeology have brought to light remains of buildings, a temple of Athena, on of which an Early Christian basilica with baptistery was built. 7 km. from Pyrgi is yet another medieval village, Olympoi, in which central bastion has also survived. South of here, beside the sea at Fana are remnants of sanctuary of Apollo (an early Classical edifice). The best-preserved medieval village, ever, is Mesta (40 km. southwest of Chios 11 km. from Pyrgi). Even though its central tower no longer stands, because a large basilica was erected in its place during the 19th century, the corner bastions of the defensive wall, gates, central square and narrow alleys are preserved and the houses all date from the 14th and 15th century.

North of the town of Chios (5 km.), in the locality known as Vrysi tou Papa, near Vrontados, stands the monument popularly know as Daskalopetra and associated in local for with Homer. It is actually an outdoor sanctuary of the goddess Cybele and the view of the sea from here is magnificent. The tomb Yannis Psycharis is not far away. At Vrontad there are two museums sponsored by to cultural associations: that of the —Philopr odos Omilos— (folk art and ecclesiastical objects) and that of the Intellectual and Culturb Movement (folk art). North of the Village (2 km.) is the Mersinidiou monastery and near Langada (9 km. from Chios) is the ancient Delphinion where excavations of the British School of Archaeology have brought to light the main Athenian naval base (5th century BC). The north side of the island differs considerably from the south both in its natural environment and density of settlement; the villages are fewer and smaller than in the south. The largest is Kardamyla (27 km. from Chios built in a richly vegetated region. At Volis (40 km. northwest of Chios) there is a well-preserved Venetian fortress on top of the hill and the monastery of St. Markella. At Ag Gala (98 km. northwest of Chios), close tot village of Ayasmata with its undeveloped curative springs, the earliest remains on the island (Neolithic period) were discovered inside cave. There has been no intervention in t cave to attract the public, even though it is of stalagmite and stalactite formations. Just by the cave mouth is the Byzantine chapel St. Thalelaios with significant wall-paintings.

The most important monument on Chios Nea Moni, some 15 km. west of the main to The monastery was founded in the middle the 11th century by the emperor Constant the Dueller (Monomachos) and is dedicated the Dormition of the Virgin. Its katholikon (octagonal type) is decorated with marble revetments and mosaics, among the finest examples of Byzantine art and contemporary with those at Daphni and Hosios Loukas. The refectory, a side chapel, underground cistern and bastion on the west face have survived, as well as a few deserted cells and ruined buildings of 18th and-19th century date. Nea Moni is generally regarded as one of Greece's outstanding Byzantine monuments. To the north (14 km.) is Anavatos, a semi-abandoned fortress-like village with impressive houses and Postbyzantine churches, notably that of St. George. Medieval towers which served as reconnaissance posts still stand at intervals along the coast (Pasha Limani below Mesta etc.).

The shores of Chios are excellent for both swimming and fishing and can be reached by bus, private transport or caique. For those with a boat a sail all around the island is a memorable experience (refueling stations in the harbor at Chios, Kardamyla, Pasha Limani). The mountains provide good hunting. Tourist facilities are of a high standard and accommodation is available in hotels, rooms and furnished apartments.

Oinouses (Inousses): Lying opposite the northeast tip of Chios (9 nautical miles) and very close to the Asia Minor coast is Oinouses, which belongs administratively to the Prefecture of Chios. It is just 14 sq. km. in area, has 48 km. of coastline and 703 inhabitants. There is a daily boat service from Chios. The island is renowned for its illustrious tradition in seafaring. There is no provision for tourists and it is visited exclusively by expatriate sailors and ship-owners who mainly return for the summer vacation. Its small natural harbors with their little beaches, mansion churches and Maritime Museum are the sole features of interest.

 

 Travel & Museum Guidesdes for your trip in the area

Road Map of Chios

Road Map
of Chios

 
Road Map of Chios - Inousses Psara

Road Map
of Chios -
Inousses Psara
Discover Greece : Rhodes, Kos, Leros, Samos, Chios, Patmos DVD (NTSC/PAL)

Discover Greece: Rhodes, Kos, Leros, Samos, Chios, Patmos (DVD - PAL)
Chios - Travel Guide

Chios
Travel Guide
To Nisi Masticha by Christos Mbelles - The History of Chios

To Nisi Masticha
by Christos
Mbelles - The History of Chios

 
The Most Beautiful Villages of Greece

The Most Beautiful Villages of Greece
 

 Saints' Name days in January

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
    1
Telemahos,
Vasiliki (Vasilis)
 2
Silvestros(Sylvester)
3
Genovefa
4
 
5
Theoni,
Theopemptos
6
Fani, Fotika
Jordan (Iordanis),
Ourania, Peristera,
Photini (Photis),
Theofanis, Theopoula
7
Giannis (Gianna),
Jeannette,
John (Ioanna/Ivana),
Prodromos
8
Agathon,
Dominiki,
Kelsios,
Parthena,
Vasilissa (Basilissa)
9 10 11
Theodosis
12
Mertios,
Tatiani
 
13
Ermilos (Ermili)
 
14
Nina (Ninas)
15
 
16 17
Anthony (Antonia),
Theodosios
18
Athanasios (Thanasis),
Cyrillos (Kyrillos),
Theodoula (Theodouli)
19
Efrasia,
Makarios
20
Efthimios (Thymios),
Fabianos (Favianos),
Thyrsi
 
21
Agnes,
Evgenios (Efgenios/Iugine)
Maximos (Massimos),
Neophytos,
Patroklos
22
Anastasios (Tasos),
Timothy (Timotheos),
Agathangelos
 
23
Dionisis (Nionios, Denis, Dennis, Denise, Sissy)
24
Filon (Philon),
Xeni (Xenis, Xeni, Xenia),
Zosimas (Zosimas, Zosimus)
 
25
Gregorios (Grigoris, Golis),
Margaret (Margarita)
 
26
Xenofon (Xenofontas)
 
27 28
Haris,
Palladios
 
29
Varsamia (Valsamo, Valsamis)
 
30
Avra, Chrysi,
Mavros (Mavreta),
Trion-Ierarhon
31
Evdoxia,
Kyros
   


Icons depicting the celebrated Saint, make great gifts for namedays!
Shop among our great collection of icons at our store.
Also available, namedays, birthday, holiday, and special occasion greeting cards.

Gold and Silver Icons Hand Painted Icons Icons by Zafiris
Gold and Silver Icons
 
Hand painted Icons
 
Icons by Zafiris
 
Want to know more about Orthodox Saints?
Complete biographies of Orthodox Saints are now available.
 

 Share With Others!!!!


Let your family and friends share the savings by forwarding them this email.
 

 Suggestions & Comments


Dear Greekshops.com customer,

Thank you for contributing to our effort to bring unique and hard to find Greek products to your home. We value your opinion, so please let us know if you have any concerns, suggestions, comments that will improve and help us grow. Send us your feedback at: [email protected]

 

 Subscription Information


Missed an issue of our
newsletter? Now you can access past newsletters by visiting
http://www.greekshops.com/newsletters_archive

To unsubscribe from our mailing list, click here
 

Copyright © 2007-2008 GreekShops.com All rights reserved.