Church of Panagia Erythiani

The Church of Panagia Ereithiani, also known as Erythiani, stands in Vrontados and takes its name from the area’s ancient name, “Erythae.” It is among Chios’s older pre-earthquake churches, though the date of the first building remains unknown. Its architectural style combines basilica and Gothic elements, with a striking pebble-mosaic courtyard completed in 1892. This motif is characteristic of Vrontados and Kambos. Dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin, Panagia Ereithiani celebrates on 15 August and is one of the two parishes where the famous Rouketopolemos (rocket war) is revived, a tradition closely tied to the area’s identity.