Spinalonga
Kríti
Spinalonga is a small rocky island located in the Gulf of Elounda, northeastern Crete, near the town of Plaka. Historically significant, it was fortified by the Venetians in the late 16th century to protect Crete from Ottoman and pirate attacks. The fortress, built with local stone and featuring 35 cannons, is remarkably well-preserved and integrates harmoniously with the natural landscape. After Venetian rule, the island became a refuge for Muslim families during Ottoman times and was later designated as a leper colony from 1904 until 1957, earning the nickname "the island of the living dead." The island has been uninhabited since 1962 but has undergone restoration. Its unique history, striking fortifications, and scenic location make it the second most visited site in Crete and the sixth in Greece overall. Visitors can observe remnants of ancient defenses, Venetian fortifications, and the poignant legacy of the leper colony amid sparse vegetation including fig trees, olive, pine, and prickly pears introduced by past occupiers.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Spinalonga is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the island is less crowded. Boat tours depart regularly from Plaka, and purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to avoid long queues. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain and bring water and sun protection. Guided tours are available to provide historical context and enhance the experience. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Note that the island is uninhabited and has limited facilities, so plan accordingly.
Faits intéressants
- •Spinalonga was among the last Venetian fortresses built on Crete, equipped with 35 cannons to defend against Ottoman attacks.
- •The island served as a leper colony from 1904 to 1957, isolated from the mainland and nicknamed "the island of the living dead."
- •The name Spinalonga originates from a Venetian misinterpretation of the Greek phrase meaning "to Elounda," combined with Latin words meaning "long thorn," possibly referencing the island's shape.
- •The island was a refuge for Muslim families during Ottoman rule, highlighting its role as a sanctuary in turbulent times.
- •Prickly pear plants on the island were introduced by the Venetians or French and are not native to Crete.
Histoire
Spinalonga's strategic location led to its fortification in antiquity to protect the ancient port of Olous.
The Venetians, who ruled Crete from 1210, built the current fortress starting in 1579, enhancing its defenses in response to Ottoman threats and pirate raids.
After a fierce siege in 1715, the island fell to the Ottomans, who used it as a refuge for Muslim families.
In the early 20th century, it was converted into a leper colony, operating until 1957.
The island has been uninhabited since 1962 but remains a significant historical monument reflecting Crete's turbulent past.
Guide du lieu
Venetian Fortress1579-1584
A well-preserved fortress built between 1579 and the late 16th century featuring coastal fortifications, blockhouses on the northern and southern high points, and a defensive ring to counter enemy landings. It was designed by engineer Genese Bressani and equipped with 35 cannons, making it one of the most important sea forts in the Mediterranean.
Leper Colony Area1904-1957
The area of the island used as a leper colony from 1904 to 1957, where patients lived in isolation. The colony included living quarters, a church, and communal facilities, reflecting the social history and medical practices of the time.
Natural Landscape and Vegetation
The island features sparse vegetation including fig trees, cypress, olive, pine, and introduced prickly pears. The terrain includes steep cliffs on the northern side and pebble beaches with shallow waters elsewhere.