Plizio Visual Lab
Spinalonga
Spinalonga, officially known as Kalydon, is a small island situated at the northern entrance of Mirabello Bay in eastern Crete. It is one of Greece's most compelling historical sites, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The island was heavily fortified by the Venetians in 1579 to protect the salt pans and the harbor of Olous. Its strategic importance was so great that it remained under Venetian rule for several decades after the mainland of Crete fell to the Ottomans. However, Spinalonga is most famously known as a leper colony, which operated from 1903 to 1957. It was one of the last such colonies in Europe, where those afflicted by the disease were sent to live in forced isolation. Despite the hardships, the residents formed a resilient community with their own shops, cafes, and local government. Walking through the abandoned streets today is a somber and moving experience, made even more famous by Victoria Hislop's bestselling novel, 'The Island.' Visitors can reach Spinalonga by boat from the nearby towns of Elounda, Plaka, or Agios Nikolaos. A tour of the island involves walking the perimeter of the fortress walls and exploring the derelict buildings of the colony. It is best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the heat and the largest crowds. Comfortable shoes are necessary for the rocky paths. The island stands as a powerful monument to both military history and human endurance.
- Location: Greece
- Nearby: Elounda (4 km)
- Population: ~2.193 (2021)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 20 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 24 | 21 | 18 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 99 | 82 | 46 | 26 | 16 | 7 | 3 | 4 | 21 | 51 | 62 | 97 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- Venetian fortress built in 1579
- Leper colony from 1903 to 1957
- Currently an uninhabited national site
- Short boat trip from Elounda or Plaka
- Setting of the novel 'The Island'
- On the UNESCO tentative list
- Strategic location in Mirabello Bay
- Well-preserved stone fortifications
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Spinalonga (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Spinalonga historically significant?
How much is the entrance fee to Spinalonga?
Is there food and water on Spinalonga island?
How much time should I plan for Spinalonga?
Is Spinalonga island wheelchair accessible?
Spinalonga: where is it located?
Spinalonga: when is the best time to visit?
Spinalonga: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
