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Spinalonga is located just off the coast of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos this island
is steeped in history.
Harking back to the Venetian occupation, the name Spinalonga
is Italian, meaning "long thorn".
In 1579 the Venetians built a mighty fortress on
the island of Spinalonga on the ruins of an ancient acropolis. The Venetians kept
control of Spinalonga even after the rest of Crete fell to the Ottomans in 1669 and
it remained under their control for almost another half a century until its capitulation
in 1715.
Spinalonga is also notable for being the last active leper colony in Europe,
being used from 1903 until 1957. The last inhabitant, a priest, left in 1962. This
was to maintain the religious tradition of the Greek Orthodox church, in which a
buried person has to be commemorated 40 days, 6 months, 1, 3 and 5 years after their
death.
There are two entrances to Spinalonga, one being the lepers' entrance, a tunnel
known as Dante's Gate. This was so named because the lepers did not know what was
going to happen to them once they arrived. However, once on the island the leper’s
received food, water, medical attention and social security payments. Previously,
such amenities had been unavailable to Crete's lepers, as they mostly lived in the
area's caves, away from civilization. eating scraps left over by the wolves who shared
their dark homes.
The island is now a ghost town, with many of the buildings falling
into disrepair, a lot of work has gone into conserving the islands history and you
can get guided tours daily around the island. The tour takes approx 1-
A lot more is known about the disease of leprosy these days and isn't contagious
but passed through blood contact. Looking back on the island through the eyes and
words of a guide is very interesting, and helps you picture what life was like. Little
museums with photos and memories are scattered through the island also.
Overall its well recommended that you visit Spinalonga, its a great part of Cretan
history and offers some fantastic views and photo opportunities. As well a a chance
to top up on the tan on the boat.
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Boat Trips to Spinalonga
The actual boat trips to Spinalonga go on a daily basis through
out the summer months, these can be booked through your local representative, or
through local travel agents dotted around every resort on the East side of Crete.
If
your staying in Agios Nikolaos you can easily book the trip the same day buy visiting
the port, many boat owners do daily trips to Spinalonga and this usually works out
less expensive. The trips come in many languages also, usually German, French and
English.
Depending on the boat operator, you may get a BBQ on the boat after the
tour, they will sail around to a small secluded bay with a small beach and while
you relax and swim a BBQ will be prepared on the rocks. The food is great and includes
salads, chicken and pork as well a fruit for desert.
Videos of Spinalonga