Information about Chios Chios formerly called Scio is a Greek island of the eastern Aegean and, administratively, a prefecture of the Northern Aegean, facing the Turkish coast. The population amounts to 51,936 inhabitants (2001 census), the surface is 845 km². The capital Chíos is an important port. Other centers are Vrondados, Volissòs, Kardamylla and Oinousses, the latter located on a small island 5 km away. The island is famous for its landscapes and mild climate. Exports include mastic, followed by olives, figs and wine. The island was also one of the 51 prefectures in which Greece was administratively divided, until 1 January 2011, when they were abolished following the entry into force of the administrative reform called the "Callicrate Program.