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Some Greeks believe that a person may catch evil eye (matiasma), due to
a jealous compliment from someone. Wearing a charm (a blue bead with an
eye painted on it) is used to stay away from catching evil eye. The
color blue is believed to ward off evil. People with blue eyes are
believed to be able to give matiasma.
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If one compliments someone, he is supposed to spit three times.
Similarly, if someone talks about something bad or unfortunate, the
others spit thrice. This action of mild spitting is believed to help
one avoid misfortune.
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Two people saying the same thing simultaneously is believed to lead to
a fight between them. This is why, if two people happen to say the same
thing together, they say piase kokkino meaning touch red.
✦ Spotting a black cat or the breaking of glass or a mirror is believed to bring bad luck.
✦ Tuesday the 13th is considered unlucky in Greece.
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A part of Greek folk stories, Kallikantzaroi are imagined to be little
black ugly-looking humanoids with tails. They are believed to stay
beneath the ground sawing the 'world tree'. It is believed that this
would eventually cause the Earth to collapse. According to Greek
folklore, these creatures come to the upper world during the period
after Christmas.
The
Greek culture today stands as an example of a beautiful blend of the
'ancient' and the 'modern'. Greece is where the East meets the West.
And this country has a long and rich history. The ancient traditions
and the present-day developments make the Greek culture unique. The
Greeks share a sense of belonging towards their cultural heritage and
are proud of the contributions they have made to the world.
