Spinalonga island on Crete image

What need to know for Spinalonga

What is the history of Spinalonga?

The island has a rich history starting from ancient times. Due to its strategic position, it was fortified, and it had different uses throughout the ages. Spinalonga is an island located in the Gulf of Elounda in the north-eastern part of Crete, in Lasithi, next to the town of Plaka. It is definitely a must-see place on Crete.

From the early years, it protected and guarded the port of Ancient Olous (city of ancient Crete -  it was situated at the present-day town of Elounda). Olous grew into a major city of northeast Crete, with an organised sanctuary, an important harbour and its own coinage.

A large part of it is now underwater. Olous is reported by Homer in his writings among other ancient Cretan cities.  Spinalonga flourished until the 8th century A.C. At that time fear of Arab pirates in the Mediterranean made the citizens move inland for more safety. The decline of the region stopped when Venice occupied Crete (1211-1669).  The Venetians were excellent merchants and they quickly recognised the value of this natural port. They harvested salt from the salt pans they created around the island. They also used it for trading regional agricultural products.
Because of piracy and the expansionist aspirations of the Ottomans they had to improve the existing defence facilities. The new fort was built in 1579. The fortifications incorporated ruins from the walls of the ancient city. It was actually a fortress island with a fortification complex consisting of double rows of high walls and towers. It possessed great firepower with 35 cannons. This was the reason why it was never occupied. Today, the biggest part of it is maintained and it is considered the most important sea fortress in the Mediterranean.  After Heraklion was occupied by the Ottomans (1669), Venetians managed to keep Spinalonga until 1715 alongside Gramvousa and Souda with the hope that someday they would reoccupy Crete. Until it was surrendered to the Ottomans it was used as a refuge for the Christians they wanted to be saved.

During the Ottoman rule, the island was inhabited by purely Turkish families due to the security of the fortifications. Merchants and sailors used this security to control the trading routes of the Eastern Mediterranean. When Crete became autonomous in 1898 the island was largely abandoned. The last Turks left in 1903 in order for the island to become a leprosarium until 1957. During the Second World War, the Germans supplied the lepers but did not dare to install a guard which gave the sick people the freedom to listen to radio stations from Cairo and London, a thing that every occupied city was not allowed to do. The Hansenians had created a quirky society with their own rules and values. Despite their sickness and social marginalization, they continued to work, get educated and live with dignity until 1957. We can take a glimpse of how the lives of the lepers were from the famous novel The Island by Victoria Hislop, a historical novel that was later made as a tv series. 

In 1970 a protected archaeological site was declared. Τhe buildings of the leprosarium were demolished and the excavations and maintenance of the walls began. Under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture, the rescue and maintenance works of the Venetian fortifications and other buildings continue to this day. Efforts are being made to include it in the list of  UNESCO’S World Heritage Sites. 
The island of Spinalonga (Greek: Σπιναλόγκα), officially known as Kalydon (Καλυδών), is located in the Gulf of Elounda in north-eastern Crete, in Lasithi, next to the town of Elounda.

Where is located Spinalonga?

Spinalonga, is known as the island of the living dead, The island of tears. An island located in the Gulf of Elounda in north-eastern Crete. Elounda is easily accessible with your car by the national road. 45 min from Heraklion and 10 min. from Ag.Nikolaos. You can catch a boat to Spinalonga not only from Elounda but also from Agios Nikolaos or Plaka. 

In the summer season, Spinalonga is visited by many tourists. You can catch a boat from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda or Plaka or if you visit it in wintertime you can ask for a boat from the locals in the tavernas in Plaka as many of them own boats for fishing or their own pleasure. Do not to miss one of the most important/famous sites in Crete.

What is Spinalonga known for? 

Spinalonga, a small island in the Gulf of Elounda in northeastern Crete, is historically significant for being a leper colony from 1903 to 1957. In 1901, the Cretan government passed a law mandating the isolation of individuals with leprosy, and Spinalonga was designated for this purpose.

How can you reach Spinalonga Island? 

Boats depart regularly from Plaka, which is directly across from Spinalonga, and every 30 minutes from Elounda between approximately 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Day trips also leave from Agios Nikolaos, some of which include lunch and a swim at nearby Kolokytha beaches.

When is Spinalonga open to visitors? 

The Spinalonga fortress is closed during the winter season (November 1 to March 31). In summer, it is typically open from April 1 to October 31, operating daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

Can you swim at Spinalonga, and what other activities are available? 

Spinalonga beach offers excellent opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also explore the island's rich history, including the Venetian fortress.

When did the last resident of Spinalonga leave?

 The island served as a leper colony from 1904 until 1957, when the last patient left.

Is Spinalonga inhabited today?

 No one lives on Spinalonga now. After the leper hospital closed in 1957, the island was abandoned. In 1976, it was declared an archaeological site, and today it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Does leprosy still exist?

 Yes, although it is rare, leprosy still exists in the world today.

What is the closest town to Spinalonga? 

The nearest town is Agios Nikolaos. Spinalonga is located in the Gulf of Elounda in northeastern Crete, near the town of Plaka in the region of Kalydon.

Who has written about Spinalonga?

Victoria Hislop’s novel, The Island, is set on Spinalonga and brings its history to life. Visitors can take boats from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, or Plaka to explore the locations mentioned in the book.

Is The Island a true story? 

The Island by Victoria Hislop is a fictional novel based on the real-life history of the leprosy colony on Spinalonga. It was first published in 2005 and has sold over a million copies.

Is there a film about Spinalonga? 

Yes, there is a film that tells the story of the last man to leave Spinalonga after it was abandoned as a leper colony.

Is Renting a Car the Best Way to Explore Crete?

Yes, renting a car is ideal for travellers who want the freedom to create their own itinerary in Crete. You can visit charming villages, scenic beaches, historic monuments, and stunning archaeological sites, all while enjoying breathtaking views of Crete’s natural beauty. While it may be tiring, the rewards of discovering hidden gems at your own pace make it worthwhile.

Where Can I Rent a Car in Crete?

You can easily rent a car at Chania Airport or Heraklion Airport (HER) and start your journey immediately. If you're arriving by boat, we can deliver your rental car directly to Souda Port or Heraklion Port.

What Types of Cars Can I Rent in Crete?

Choose from a wide selection of luxury and economy vehicles, all fully insured and equipped with modern amenities. Our affordable car rental rates ensure a comfortable, hassle-free experience.

How to Book a Rental Car in Crete

You can book your rental car online through our website or by contacting us via WhatsApp or Viber at (+30) 6970980918.


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Boat Trip to Spinalonga: What to Expect and How to Plan

How to Visit Spinalonga Fortress by Boat?

To visit Spinalonga Island, take a boat from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, or Plaka. The island is famous for its Venetian fortress.
Boat tours often include stops for swimming, particularly at Kolokytha Peninsula beaches, and some offer lunch.

What Can You Expect on a Spinalonga Boat Tour?

In addition to visiting the fortress, boat cruises in Mirabello Bay offer opportunities to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Elounda Beach.
Many tours also include lunch and a chance to swim off the beaches near Kolokytha Peninsula, before returning to Agios Nikolaos in the afternoon.

Places to visit near Spinalonga

Elounda

Elounda is different from most resorts in Crete. Although Elounda is known as a luxury resort, the audience is not just made up of high earners. Hidden away on the eastern coast of Crete, Elounda is a pretty fishing village that is the perfect destination for a relaxing seaside getaway. You'll love Elounda if you're looking for a traditional Greek resort that isn't too crowded or commercialized. However, that doesn't mean there's nothing to do here.

Kolokytha beach

The Kolokytha beach is an insider tip that is becoming more and more popular. To get here, follow the road from Elounda, past Olous to the Spinalonga peninsula and then follow the off-road road until the road finally ends at the chapel of St. Luke. Even if you can't see the beach from here, it's only a few minutes downhill on a narrow footpath and you reach Kolokytha Beach. The small beach consists of fine sand and the water is always very calm and shallow. The colours of the water range from blue to turquoise and the beach is perfect for snorkelling. It got its name from the island Kolokytha (zucchini) on the opposite side. Kolokytha Beach is a dreamlike beach.

Plaka

A feature of Plaka is the wonderful views of the island Kalydon, where the famous fortress of Spinalonga stands. Spinalonga operated as a leper hospital during the first half of the 20th century. Plaka existence is highly linked to Spinalonga, as the settlement was built for serving the leper colony.

Today, in Plaka you will find several traditional taverns and lovely old houses, which give you the impression that time has stopped here 2-3 centuries ago. Indeed, this picturesque place was the ideal place for filming one of the most amazing TV series of Greek Television, called “The Island” (2010).

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Happy family next to the beach