Kalymnos has a long and rich history tied to sponge diving, making it known as the “Sponge Island” of Greece. Sponge diving has been a vital part of the island’s culture and economy for centuries, and it remains an iconic symbol of Kalymnos to this day.
The History of Sponge Diving in Kalymnos
Sponge diving began on Kalymnos over 2,000 years ago, and by the 19th century, the island was recognized as one of the world’s most important centers for natural sponge harvesting. Kalymnians would journey across the Mediterranean, diving for sponges by hand, initially with no diving equipment. As technology evolved, divers started using diving suits, which allowed them to explore greater depths. However, this came with risks, including decompression sickness (known as the “bends”), leading to many injuries and deaths over the years.
Despite the dangers, sponge diving became a way of life for many on the island. Entire families were involved, with men going out to sea for months at a time to gather sponges and women working to process and sell them.
Sponge Diving Techniques
Traditionally, Kalymnian divers would dive naked or with minimal gear, carrying a stone weight to descend quickly to the sea floor. Once there, they would gather sponges by hand before resurfacing. With the advent of modern equipment in the early 20th century, divers began using heavy diving suits and helmets, known as “skafandro,” allowing them to dive deeper and for longer periods.
However, technological advances came with consequences. The dangers of deep-sea diving led to many fatalities and injuries among the sponge divers, but this only added to the respect for their bravery and skill.
The Sponge Industry Today
Today, while the natural sponge industry has declined due to overharvesting and the introduction of synthetic sponges, Kalymnos continues to produce high-quality, natural sponges that are prized around the world. These sponges are harvested sustainably, and the island remains one of the few places where traditional sponge diving techniques are preserved.
Several types of sponges are harvested from the seabed around Kalymnos, including:
- Honeycomb Sponges: The most famous and durable, ideal for bath use.
- Silk Sponges: Soft and delicate, often used for cosmetic purposes.
- Grass Sponges: Coarser and typically used for cleaning.
Visiting Sponge Workshops and Museums
For visitors, exploring the sponge diving heritage of Kalymnos is a unique experience. There are several sponge workshops and museums on the island where you can learn about the history, process, and different types of sponges, as well as purchase authentic Kalymnian sponges. Some of the top places to visit include:
- Sponge Diving Museum (Valsamidis Museum): Located in Pothia, this museum showcases the tools, diving suits, and other equipment used by sponge divers over the centuries. It also provides a fascinating look into the dangers and hardships faced by divers.
- Sponge Workshops: Many small workshops in Pothia and other villages offer guided tours where you can watch the process of cleaning and preparing sponges. These workshops are often family-run and have been operating for generations.
Sponges as Souvenirs
Natural sponges from Kalymnos make for excellent souvenirs or gifts. Not only are they beautiful and functional, but they are also eco-friendly. Buying a sponge directly from a workshop or local market supports the island’s long-standing tradition and craftsmanship.
Sponge Festivals
Kalymnos celebrates its sponge diving heritage with local festivals, where the community honors the history of the trade, and visitors can immerse themselves in the culture. The most prominent event is the Kalymnos Sponge Festival, which features music, dancing, and exhibitions related to sponge diving.
Kalymnos’ connection to sponge diving runs deep, and the island’s reputation as the “Sponge Divers’ Island” continues to attract visitors who want to explore its unique cultural and economic history.