Kalymnos Returns to Its Roots: Thousands Gather for a Moving Re-enactment of the Sponge Divers’ Departure
The waterfront of Kalymnos became a vast stage of history, memory and emotion on Saturday evening, 8 August 2026, as thousands of residents and visitors gathered for the re-enactment of the “Pokinima,” the traditional departure of the island’s sponge-diving fleets.
The centrepiece of the 4th Sponge Diver Festival, organised by the Kalymnos Regional Administration, was held for the fourth consecutive year, bringing to life the stories of the people whose relationship with the sea shaped the identity of the island.
This year’s event was dedicated to the sponge divers’ wives and the many women who remained behind, keeping their homes and families together while their husbands spent months on distant and dangerous voyages.
An event reaching beyond Kalymnos
The host of the event, Kalymnos Regional Governor Manolis Mousellis, highlighted the growing appeal of the “Pokinima,” noting that it has now extended beyond the island and is developing into an event of Dodecanese-wide significance.
According to Mousellis, preparations began in November, with the final production resulting from months of work by the organising committee, dozens of volunteers and everyone involved in staging the event.
He also acknowledged the support of the South Aegean Region and Regional Governor Georgios Hatzimarkos, the General Secretariat for the Aegean and Island Policy, and the festival’s sponsors.
Four people honoured for their contribution
Before the re-enactment began, four individuals were honoured for their contribution to Kalymnos, its culture and its sponge-diving heritage.
Internationally renowned anthropologist H. Russell Bernard received an award for his role in studying and promoting the island’s sponge-fishing tradition around the world. The commemorative plaque was presented by Mayor of Kalymnos Ioannis Mastrokoukos.
Nikolaos Sisois, a prominent figure in Kalymnian sponge diving who suffered from decompression sickness, was also honoured. His award was presented by Dodecanese MP Manos Konsolas.
Two leading women in the island’s cultural life were recognised as well: Popi Mavrou, honorary president of the Kalymnos branch of the Lyceum Club of Greek Women, and Katerina Klonari, founder of the Kalymnos Theatre Group. Their awards were presented by Regional Governor Manolis Mousellis.
Departure, anxiety and the long-awaited return
With Giannis Nomikarios serving as coordinator and presenter, the story of the “Pokinima” unfolded through theatrical scenes, narration, music and dance.
The audience watched the preparations of the sponge-diving vessels, the painful farewells and the anxiety of families waiting for months for their loved ones to return. Their wish was always the same: that every diver would come home alive and in good health.
The performance reached its climax with the return of the boats, as the waterfront once again filled with scenes of joy and memories of the lasting wounds caused by the dangerous life of the sponge diver.
The “Mechanic’s Dance” and “Tzivaeri” move the audience
One of the most emotional moments was the performance of the “Mechanic’s Dance,” created by the late Theofilos Klonaris. The dance was presented by the Lyceum Club of Greek Women, accompanied by the Kallidonakia ensemble: Giannis Kallidonis on violin, with Nikitas and Theofilis Kallidonis on lute and vocals.
Singer Kaiti Koullia brought another dimension to the production, with her music reflecting the images and emotions unfolding before the audience. The performance of the emblematic Greek song “Tzivaeri” became one of the defining moments of the evening, as the entire waterfront joined her in song.
Kalliopi Kalomirou also participated on santouri and vocals, alongside Mrs Kavoukli.
A large screen brought the action closer to the audience and presented historic footage filmed by anthropologist H. Russell Bernard during the 1950s, when he visited Kalymnos to study the island’s sponge-diving culture.
Giorgos Kampouris was responsible for sound and lighting, contributing significantly to the technical quality of the production. Traditional local dishes, including oven-baked chickpeas, were offered to the audience at the end of the evening.
The event was attended by representatives of political and church authorities, the Armed Forces, the security services, local organisations, cultural associations and the Kalymnian diaspora.
The 2026 “Pokinima” was far more than a historical re-enactment. It was a living tribute to the sponge divers who confronted the dangers of the sea—and to the women who stayed behind and kept Kalymnos standing.
