Nea Moni is an 11th-century monastery set in the wooded hills of central Chios, about 11 km west of the main town. It was built on the orders of Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos following the reported discovery of a miraculous icon of the Virgin. The mosaics that cover the interior of the church dome and apse are among the finest surviving examples of Byzantine art — vivid, gold-ground, and remarkably intact given the building's age and turbulent history.
The monastery is now a convent; a small community of nuns tends to the building and allows visitors. The grounds are peaceful, with views across the hills to the sea on clear days. The main church and the ossuary are both open. You will need to dress modestly to enter — scarves and coverings for shoulders and knees are required and available at the entrance.
Getting there by public transport is awkward — a taxi from Chios town or a rental car is the practical option. Allow at least two hours including travel time.