Evil Eyes

No matter wherever you visit in North Cyprus, it is inevitable that you will come across an evil eye gem.

Everywhere in NCY, these blue beads locally known as Nazar Boncukare hung in homes, cars, shops, restaurants, used as an accessory in jewellery fashion and even embedded into walls and arches.

The humble beads play an important function for Turkish Cypriots as they ward off and protect the owner from “evil eyes”, bad luck or sickness.

In fact, this tradition dates from pre-Christian times, when people believed that a look of hate from one person to another could bring upon illness, bad luck or even death. Not just hatred, jealousy or even extreme affection can also be the cause of any potential adverse experiences.

The blue evil eye beads are made from glass, and should also contain iron, copper, water and salt, a more resistant ingredient against evil!

Do not underestimate the protective powers of these gems – pick one up on your next visit to NCY, you never know when you might need it. You will almost find one in every jeweller or gift shop, and ironically these make for very ‘eye-catching’ souvenirs!