Birthplace of Homer, Chios is dominated by its volcanic peaks. The south of the island is known for its cultivation of the lentisk tree, from which the uniquely aromatic resin "mastic" is extracted. To the north near the capital lies Kampos, fiefdom of the Genoese, who built superb houses here amidst lush orchards in the 15C. The island has fine beaches, among which that of Emporeios, in addition to an outstanding Byzantine heritage, notably Néa Moní monastery, a Unesco World Heritage site.