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Pyrgi (Πυργί) is a medieval village in Chios, Greece, famous for the black and white geometrical designs on the buildings called xysta. Wandering through the narrow streets will leave you mesmerized by the designs. The village is located in the southern half of the island.
Xysta
The xysta originate from the Genoese who once ruled the island. The technique is similar to Italian sgraffito. These decorations make Pyrgi a very attractive village to visit. In fact, not only are the houses and churches decorated, you can find xysta even on the gas station.
Town Square
One of my favorite things to do while visiting the village is to sit in the square and have frappe and some pastries for breakfast. As of my last visit in 2013, there’s also free wifi in the square.
Chios Mastic Museum
A new attraction that opened in 2016 is the Chios Mastic Museum. It’s located just outside of Pyrgi and tells the story of the island’s most important commodity. I haven’t been back to visit but I’m looking forward to seeing it on my next trip.
