Excellent museum.
Informative videos are very helpful to grasp the general concept before reading the detailed texts. (except for the disagreeable and one-sided so called "Ottoman massacres" part) (unnecessary to put such a list¹ without thinking about the Turkish side² in a museum about mastica)
The museum being interactive and having a path for walking between mastiha trees are such a great opportunity and it has a more lasting effect on mind which is really nice. Also the location is quite remarkable.
On the other hand I have to say that the entrance fee (8€ full 4€ discounted) and souvenir shop prices are too much.
¹ The list is exaggerated to put a dramatic effect. It states that 20K+ people were killed and 50K+ were sold as "slaves".
² It's deeply tragic that the Tripolitsa massacres, and many others, are portrayed as if they never happened and only Greek blood was shed everywhere. I know this is a museum about Chios however in a lot of places it is portrayed like this and this is really heart-breaking and is a huge disrespect to Turkish people and especially those who lost their families.
THE WHOLE VIDEO THAT PORTRATS THE "MASSACRES" WORKS ON SOME PEOPLE AS A REASON FOR HATRED TO TURKISH PEOPLE AND I AM AGAINST THESE NOTIONS FOR ANY RACES AND COUNTRIES. THROUGHOUT THE HISTORY IT IS A FACT THAT BOTH SIDES HAD PUT A PRESSURE ON EACH OTHER. HOWEVER THIS SHOULD NOT BE A PROPAGANDA FOR TODAY AND IT SHOULD NOT HELP FEEDING THE "NATIONALISTS" (NATIONAL FASCISM) AND THOSE WHO USE THESE FEELINGS FOR POLITICS.
WE, THE PEOPLE OF TURKIYE AND GREECE, ARE BROTHERS OF THE AGEAN. WE CAN LIVE IN PEACE AND...
Read moreThe Mastic Museum in Chios is an absolute gem, not only for its fascinating exhibitions but also for its incredible shop and café. The museum itself offers a deep dive into the unique history and culture of mastic, but what really makes the visit unforgettable is how it ends: with the café and the shop.
The café is hands down the best in Chios. The atmosphere is welcoming, the space is beautifully designed, and the coffee is exceptional. A huge part of that experience is thanks to Argenis (I hope I’ve spelled the name right!), the barista who makes you feel at home from the moment you step in. Argenis doesn’t just serve coffee; he crafts it with care and warmth, making every cup a perfect blend of taste and hospitality.
The shop is equally wonderful, offering high-quality mastic-based products that make perfect gifts or a treat for yourself. From cosmetics to delicacies, everything feels authentic and thoughtfully curated.
All in all, the Mastic Museum is worth a visit for its cultural value alone, but the shop and especially the café elevate the entire experience. It’s a place where history, taste, and heartfelt hospitality come together....
Read moreWe visited the Mastic Museum today as a family of four and had a fantastic time! One of the nice surprises was that there's no entrance fee for kids, which made it even more family-friendly.
The museum is quite spacious — it took us about an hour to explore everything at a comfortable pace. The layout inside is very well designed and easy to navigate, which made the whole experience smooth and enjoyable.
We learned so much about the history and significance of mastic, from its cultivation to its many uses. The exhibits were informative and engaging, and the presence of real machines on the lower floor (-1) was a highlight! You can actually see how mastic was traditionally processed before being packaged — and even make the machines work.
Outside, the museum is surrounded by mastic trees, which adds a lovely natural touch and connects beautifully with the content inside.
Highly recommend this museum for families or anyone interested in learning more about this unique and historic product. A truly educational and...
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