Birthplace of Homer, Chios is dominated by its volcanic peaks. Elsewhere, plains and hills alternate, and there are fine citrus groves. The south of the island is known for its cultivation of the lentisk tree, from which the uniquely aromatic resin “mastic” is extracted. The island has fine beaches (Nagós), but its main lure is for lovers of Byzantine art (notably the Néa Moní monastery, a Unesco World Heritage site), history and culture.