Visit Spinalonga, the Leper Island
ABOUT
Spinalonga is widely regarded as one of the most significant historical landmarks in Crete, with a rich history spanning centuries. Originally a prominent Venetian fortress, it later gained infamy as the ‘Island of Lepers’ due to its role in isolating individuals afflicted with leprosy from the mainland and the rest of Greece until 1957. For many decades, Spinalonga remained untapped.
Following the growing interest from numerous tourists, a systematic restoration and repair effort was initiated for the old buildings, fortified Venetian walls, houses, and streets of Spinalonga. The Ministry of Culture has taken steps to include Spinalonga in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, recognising its historical and cultural significance.
Boat trip
60 minutes from Agios Nikolaos
20 minutes from Elounda
10 minutes from Plaka
Information from Agios Nikolaos Municipality
Photos 1-4 by Marina Vernicos
Photo 6 - 6 by Evangelos Mpikakis on Unsplash
Photo 7 by Martijn Vonk on Unsplash
27°C
