Travel with us

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MARTAKIA, COLOURFUL SPRING BRACELETS

It is surprising how many good luck charms, amulets and references to health appear in the Greek folk tradition.

Today we are featuring the white and red March bracelet called μαρτακι, which according to popular custom is worn on the wrist, ankle or in some areas on the big toe so that the wearer does not stumble. Traditionally, this bracelet would protect the wearer from the first sun and the whims of the spring season. In fact, red recalls the color of healthy cheeks while white symbolizes the purity of the complexion.

 

According to some, the bracelet should be woven or purchased on the last day of February, worn on the first day of March (especially by children) and then removed at the end of the month. The bracelet should therefore not be thrown away, but hung on the branches of roses or almond trees so that the swallows can collect the threads and use them to build their nests. According to others, the bracelet should be worn until (Orthodox) Easter and then burned with the fire of votive candles.

Although Greece claims the origins of this tradition dating it back to the Eleusinian Mysteries (the mystics tied a thread, which they called "Kroki", to the right hand and left foot), March is celebrated throughout the Balkans with regional variations. In Romania the March bracelet is known as Martizor, in Albania as Vorore and in Bulgaria as Martenitsa.

There are still a few days to go until the end of February, there is plenty of time to buy your bracelet on the many online stores in Greece that have been colored red and white these days. Or you could prepare it with your children or grandchildren, accompanying them not only towards spring but also to discover the truest Greece in view of the holidays!

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