The history of spectacles, or eyeglasses, dates back to the 13th century. However, the exact origin of the invention is not clear, and there are different accounts of how and when eyeglasses were first created.

One of the earliest accounts of eyeglasses can be traced back to the Roman Empire. Emperor Nero is said to have watched gladiatorial games through a concave emerald, which acted as a crude magnifying glass. Similarly, the Chinese used a crystal convex lens to enhance vision as early as the 11th century.

In Europe, the first recorded use of eyeglasses was by a monk named Friar Alessandro della Spina. He is believed to have made the first pair of eyeglasses in Pisa, Italy, in the late 13th century. According to legend, he was inspired to create eyeglasses after noticing that many of his fellow monks were having trouble reading as they got older.

Initially, eyeglasses were seen as a luxury item and were only available to the wealthy. They were made from materials such as glass, rock crystal, and even animal horn. The lenses were held together by a metal or bone frame and rested on the nose.

In the 17th century, eyeglasses began to be mass-produced, and the first eyeglass factories were established in Europe. This made eyeglasses more affordable and accessible to the general public. By the 18th century, eyeglasses had become a fashion accessory, with frames made from materials such as tortoiseshell and gold.

In the 19th century, advancements in lens-making technology led to the development of bifocal lenses, which have two different prescriptions in one lens. This allowed people with both nearsightedness and farsightedness to use the same pair of glasses.
In the 20th century, eyeglasses continued to evolve, with the introduction of new materials such as plastic and titanium. Contact lenses were also invented in the early 20th century, providing an alternative to traditional eyeglasses.

Today, eyeglasses are available in a wide variety of styles and materials, from classic wire frames to trendy plastic frames. They are also more affordable and accessible than ever before, with many online retailers offering glasses at competitive prices.

In conclusion, the history of spectacles is a fascinating one, spanning over 700 years. From their humble beginnings as a luxury item for the wealthy, eyeglasses have evolved into an essential tool for millions of people worldwide, helping them to see more clearly and live more fulfilling lives.