029 - Petal

AN IRON PETAL was a plate applied to the hoof of the horse with the help of special nails (“petalokarfa”), in order to protect the animal from injuries. All animals needed shoeing, because their petals were worn out from walking on the rugged mountain trails of Mani. Petals were made in specific molds and placed by specialized craftsmen, called “kalligotides” or “albanides”. The locals used to hang old petals like this onto walls or doors, with leather laces, because it was believed that this would bring them good luck and would keep the evil away.

Donor: Pavlos Michalakakos