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The history of Greek komboloi traces back centuries. It is rooted in Greek culture and tradition. Originally, komboloi were strands of beads used for religious purposes in orthodoxy. However, over time, they evolved into a symbol of leisure and relaxation without any specific meaning.
Things changed during the Ottoman Empire’s rule in Greece, when worry beads gained popularity among the upper class as a status symbol and a means of stress relief. They were often crafted from precious materials like amber, coral, or silver. The rhythmic clicking of the beads was a kind of meditation,
In the 20th century, komboloi became widely accessible to the masses, losing some of their elitist character. Today, they remain a cherished part of Greek culture and some of the most amazing Greek gifts.