Natural Sponges

Natural sea sponges are a great value over synthetic sponges for many reasons. Sea sponges are more durable and last longer than synthetic sponges because they are more resistant to abrasion.
In addition, natural sea sponges are better for bathing and cleaning because they soak up and hold more water without dripping.
Natural sponges are self-cleaning through their intricate system of canals.

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Sponge's History

The usage of sponge was first mentioned in the works of Aristotle and Homer. Since the ancient times, the life and culture of Kalymnos Island was linked to this marine animal; this is the reason Kalymnos is also known as the "Sponge-divers' island". Sponge diving has always been a common occupation on Kalymnos and sponges have been the main source of income of the Kalymnians bringing wealth on the island and making it famous in the Mediterranean.

The first Kalymnian sponge divers used no uniform or equipment and relied mostly on their ability to hold their breath in the sea. The traditional way of sponge-fishing before their replacement by modern technology and special equipment was the harpoon.
The new technology allowed spongers to dive in greater depths and stay longer under the water.
However, this otherwise positive fact caused the appearence of decompression sickness, also known as the divers' disease.

The Greek sponge trade was centered close to Dodecanese with Kalymnos being the most prominent for centuries and until mid-80’s, when a disease hit the eastern Mediterranean destroying a great number of sponges and the sponge-fishing industry by extension.

Sponge diving with all its traditions and history still forms the very soul of the people of this island. There is a celebration called Sponge Week taking place on the island each year one week after Easter to honour the relationship between the people of Kalymnos and the sponge, which is also known as the Kalymnian “Gold”.
As usual in these occasions, the people sing, dance, and eat traditionally.