A journey to the heart of Byzantium
Climb the green hills of central Chios, about 12 kilometers from the city, to discover a real gem of Byzantine art: Iera Nea Moni (Holy New Monastery). It was founded around AD 1042 with the imperial sponsorship of Constantine IX the Gladiator and was one of the richest and most important intellectual centres of the Aegean for centuries, having once occupied a third of the island.
The uniqueness of Nea Moni led to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. Start your tour from the katholikon to admire a dazzling mosaic decoration. Crafted by Constantinople artists, these mosaics are considered to be top examples of Middle Byzantine art in Greece. The glow of the gold background and the expressive forms combine devoutness and unparalleled brilliance, capturing the magnitude of 11th-century art.
The complex is surrounded by a high defensive enclosure and tower. Although it was severely tested by the Massacre of 1822 and the earthquake of 1881, it still retains its imposing character. Walk along the walls to understand its fortification layout. To complete the picture of the millennial history of the monastery, do not forget to visit the small museum that houses relics and sculptures.
Stand under domes illuminated with the glow of thousands of mosaics and let a Byzantine aura overwhelm you. Discover the golden thread that connects Chios with Constantinople and witness the radiance of a World Heritage Site.
The uniqueness of Nea Moni led to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. Start your tour from the katholikon to admire a dazzling mosaic decoration. Crafted by Constantinople artists, these mosaics are considered to be top examples of Middle Byzantine art in Greece. The glow of the gold background and the expressive forms combine devoutness and unparalleled brilliance, capturing the magnitude of 11th-century art.
The complex is surrounded by a high defensive enclosure and tower. Although it was severely tested by the Massacre of 1822 and the earthquake of 1881, it still retains its imposing character. Walk along the walls to understand its fortification layout. To complete the picture of the millennial history of the monastery, do not forget to visit the small museum that houses relics and sculptures.
Stand under domes illuminated with the glow of thousands of mosaics and let a Byzantine aura overwhelm you. Discover the golden thread that connects Chios with Constantinople and witness the radiance of a World Heritage Site.
