Spinalonga is a small rocky island located in the Gulf of Elounda on the northeastern coast of Crete, near the town of Agios Nikolaos. It lies just opposite the villages of Plaka and Elounda and is easily accessible by boat.

Historically, Spinalonga has had a complex past. It was fortified by the Venetians in the 16th century to protect the area from Ottoman attacks, and later came under Ottoman control. In the early 20th century, the island gained tragic fame as one of Europe’s last active leper colonies, operating from 1903 to 1957, where people with leprosy were isolated from mainland society.

Spinalonga is famous for its well-preserved Venetian fortress, narrow stone streets, and abandoned houses, which create a haunting but fascinating atmosphere. Its history as a place of exile has made it a powerful symbol of human resilience and social isolation, and it has been widely featured in literature and documentaries.

Today, Spinalonga is an important archaeological and historical site, protected by the Greek Ministry of Culture. It is one of Crete’s most visited attractions, with tourists arriving daily by boat to explore its ruins, walk along the fortifications, and learn about its unique and emotional history.