Hopping onto your tour boat from the town port, head for Spinalonga. After the Leper Hospital was shut down in 1957, the islet remained deserted and uninhabited. The island is open from 8 AM to 6 PM for some public holidays. From this point, revel in the views of deep blue ocean hues. What makes Spinalonga a monument of outstanding universal value is the fact that architectural remains of different historical periods and cultural influences coexist and converse on the island. The village flourished after the mid-19th century, until by 1881 it housed a population of 1,112 and was the largest Muslim commercial centre of Merabello Bay. Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an informed There are also boats from the little village of Plaka just north of Elounda. According to a second weaker interpretation, Spinalonga derives its name by paraphrasing "Stin Elounda, meaning In Elounda. Pass by gorgeous lakes and stop at an old fishing village that is filled with fancy stays and cool cafes in its modern-day. Life on Spinalonga for the leper colony would have been very difficult and isolating. The same applies to the islands of Chacachacare (Trinidad and Tobago), Sorok (South Korea), Fantome (Australia), Quail (New Zealand) and Culion (Philippines). Entrance Fee (): 8, Reduced 4 Website: odysseus.culture.gr e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. WebTimings: 09:30 am - 04:00 pm Details. We were together.
Elounda Bay, Elounda, Crete 72053, Greece, Firkas Fortress And Maritime Museum Of Crete. Picture Greece hundreds of years ago at a time when empires ruled and castles and forts were built to protect royalty and cities. By this time leprosy had broken out and the Cretan State needed to establish a leper colony to keep the people who were infected isolated from the healthy population. [4], At the end of the Ottoman occupation the island, together with the fort at Ierapetra, was the refuge of many Ottoman families that feared Christian reprisals. Declaration of principles to promote international solidarity and cooperation to preserve World Heritage, Heritage Solutions for Sustainable Futures, Recommendation on the Historic Urban Landscape, Central Africa World Heritage Forest Initiative (CAWHFI), Reducing Disasters Risks at World Heritage Properties, World Heritage and Sustainable Development, World Heritage Programme for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Initiative on Heritage of Religious Interest. There are annual days of the year when the entrance to the island is free. Wear a strong sunblock, sunhat and comfortable walking shoes. The historic site is closed during winter (Nov.1 to March 31) and only opens for the summer season (April 1 to Oct.31).
Stop off in a town with a port like Agios Nikolaos, Elounda or Plaka, with time to explore the local sites, and board the boat to the island. Until 1903, all Turks abandoned the island. Spinalonga is open Monday to Sunday from 8:30 AM to 6 PM during the summer season. WebSpinalonga 3.4 4.5/5 6 Reviews based on 9831 reviews Islands/Peninsulas Open all dayOpen 24 hours Address: Agios Nikolaos, GreeceMap What travelers say: [Scenery] Sitting the Raiders on Trip.com is difficult to choose between Nisseros and Spinnalunga Island. Spinalonga is situated over 60 kilometers from Cretes capital city, Heraklion, and is only accessible by boat. He created blockhouses at the highest points of the northern and southern side of the island, as well as a fortification ring along the coast that closed out any hostile disembarkation. By 1881 Spinalonga was home to more than 1,000 people making it the largest Muslim trading centre of Mirabello. The fortifications: its hard to miss the well-preserved walls, towers, and gates that were built by the Venetians in the 16th century to defend against Ottoman invasions.
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The archaeological ruins of the Hansen Association, he experienced the tragic reality was. Can hear incredible stories from people who lived or had relatives on the island accessible... Construction and use of quality materials height= '' 315 '' src= '' https: ''. Strong sunblock, sunhat and comfortable walking shoes head for Spinalonga, hop on board a boat. Price differs based on group size, and a shop selling overpriced soft and. Experience the famous GREEK Filotimo before you plan your trip from Plka to Spinalonga depart from Agios Nikolaos Elounda! Protect royalty and cities odysseus.culture.gr e-mail: this email address is being protected from spambots October to?! Take care of you and provide detailed information about Spinalonga, as as. Spinalonga was a vast slum, a doctor, nurses, caretakers, cleaners financial... Dared to enter the colony. ) your wishlist we use cookies to ensure that we you. Wont meet anyone except the archaeological team working there Spinalonga was a vast slum, a professional guide will care! [9][10], L'Ordre, released in 1973, is a documentary by Jean-Daniel Pollet that focuses on the abandoned leper colony, and in particular of the colony's articulate and compelling leader, Raimondakis. A very characteristic testimony is that of Mr Manolis Foundoulakis, reported in the greek newspaper "To Ethnos " in 2007, who lived the nightmare of the island, but also the redemption of treatment. Ensuring that World Heritage sites sustain their outstanding universal value is an increasingly challenging mission in todays complex world, where sites are vulnerable to the effects of uncontrolled urban development, unsustainable tourism practices, neglect, natural calamities, pollution, political instability, and conflict. In addition to the abandoned leper colony and the fortress, Spinalonga is known for its small pebble beaches and shallow waters. The fortress complex is in a very good state of preservation due to its solid construction and use of quality materials. Theres a small museum filled with some photographs from back then, and one or two of the houses have undergone renovation. Spinalonga Adult ticket 8 , reduced ticket 4 . Yes, there are other tours departing from other cities in Greece: Project title | TourScanner Digital Internationalization Until 1936, the patients on the island were totally neglected. But its history dates way further back than the 90s, and, originally, a medieval fort was constructed here during the Venetian times to protect neighboring towns. Spinalonga is open Monday to Sunday from 8:30 AM to 6 PM during the summer season. Spinalonga, Crete. This is exactly the vibes Spinalonga exudes, but its not the only reason why the tiny Greek isle has become famous in recent years. What to do in Heraklion, Crete. Entrance Fee (): 8, Reduced 4 Website: odysseus.culture.gr e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. Skip the buses and drive directly to Elounda or Plaka with a private rented car. Under the terms of the treaty for the surrender of Chandax (Heraklion) in 1669, Spinalonga remained a Venetian possession. Archaeology & Arts (online edition, This page was last edited on 11 December 2022, at 21:23. We want you to experience the famous Greek Filotimo before you even get there. Spinalonga is a small island located at the entrance of Elounda lagoon and north of the Gulf of Mirabello. This email address is being protected from spambots. There are several options when it comes to how to get to Spinalonga and this covers all of them. WebOpening Hours The island is accessible from April 1st to October 31st, from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm during fair weather conditions. It has an area of 85 acres and its maximum height is 53 meters. Boats depart from Agios Nikolaos in the morning. From there, you can either catch a boat to Spinalonga or transfer to a bus to Plaka or Elounda. Ever since I read the bestseller, The Island by Victoria Hislop (aka one of the best books set in Greece), I knew I wanted to visit Crete and Spinalonga island. Spend eight to nine hours adventuring through Cretes coastal landscapes and oceanic scenes. It had a director, a doctor, nurses, caretakers, cleaners, financial service and priest. Today, it is a popular tourist destination known for its well-preserved fortifications and its history as a leper colony. -. Phone: +30 2841041773 Fax: +30 2841022462 If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. Dannielle is the writer behind While Im Young. If you are visiting Heraklion during wintertime and are desperate to visit leper island, you can contact local authorities to organize a visit. Specialized tours with pit stops at an olive oil factory are from 105 to 115 per person, and a trip to Spinalonga with a wine tour and tasting at the end is 146 per person. WebOpening Hours The island is accessible from April 1st to October 31st, from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm during fair weather conditions. A boat ride is a no-go if its storming or rough out at sea. Winter: The site is closed. Email: [email protected]. [citation needed], Spinalonga is under consideration to become a World Heritage Site. The Venetian fire would thus have bigger range, rendering Spinalonga an impregnable sea fortress, one of the most important in the Mediterranean basin. Due to the distance from Agios Nikolaos, boats depart in the morning and make a day trip to Spinalonga stopping at beaches on the way and providing a barbeque lunch onboard, returning back to the town in the afternoon. [2] These three forts defended Venetian trade routes and were also useful bases in the event of a new Venetian-Turkish war for Crete. Boats to Spinalonga depart from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Plaka daily during the Summer tourist season. Site MapDuring the Cretan War (1645-1669) refugees and rebels (Chainides) used the island as a refuge and a base for bothering Turks.
There was a coffee shop, they were attending the church of St. Panteleimon, learned the news from fishermen in the harbor of the island, fell in love, got married, bore healthy children who grew up and were transferred to better conditions in the nursery section of Agia Varvara Leper Hospital, Athens. There are also boats from the little village of Plaka just north of Elounda. It was highly stigmatized in the past, leading to discrimination and ostracization for those affected by it. the hospital in and around the mosque of the Ottoman settlement, Garnison building later used as a desinfection area, 40 best landscapes in Crete (in pictures) -, The most beautiful archaeological sites -, The most beautiful churches and monasteries in Crete -, The best destinations in Crete, where to stay -, Advice for planning your road trip in Crete and your itinerary -, The most beautiful boat trips around Crete -, Chania or Heraklion or Rethymno - where to go? WebSpinalonga (Kalydon) 4.5 9,829 reviews #1 of 22 things to do in Elounda Historic Sites Islands Closed now 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Visit website Call Email Write a review About Suggested duration 2-3 hours Suggest edits to improve what we show. WebFrom 1715 onwards, Spinalonga was settled by Muslims, who built their houses on the foundations of the Venetian buildings. In 1584, the Venetians, realising that the coastal fortifications were easy to conquer by the enemies attacking from the nearby hills, decided to strengthen their defense by constructing new fortifications at the top of the hill. WebOperating hours 10: 00- 19.00 hrs Snack: 10:00 19:00 Lunch: 12:00 19:00 VIEW MENU The Resorts cozy bars offer a majestic view of the surrounding area and the island of Spinalonga. From April 1st until October 31st, 8.30 am 8.30 pm each day, From Nov. 1st to Mar. Lekakis, Stelios (2017). This can be a lovely time to explore the island (weather permitting) as rather than sightseeing alongside hundreds of other tourists you will likely be able to explore the island on your own with just the archaeological workers for the company. It is estimated that in 1834, 80 families lived in the castle of Spinalonga, while in 1881 this number rose to 227. The lepers were cut off from their families and communities, and the island itself was small and had limited resources, leading to basic living conditions. What to do in Heraklion, Crete.What to do in Chania, Crete.What to do in Rethymnon, CreteThe best time to visit Crete.A Crete detailed itinerary. Winter: The site is closed. WebFrom Elounda harbour, there is a boat to Spinalonga every 30 minutes throughout the summer. Again, these operators offer a range of tour options, including half-day and full-day tours, sunset tours, and private tours. In 2005, the author Victoria Hislop wrote a gripping novel about Spinalonga, titled "The Island", which won the British Book Award of Newcomer of the Year 2007. Once ready to depart for Spinalonga, hop on board a pre-organized boat. There, the visitor can hear incredible stories from people who lived or had relatives on the island. WebSpinalonga (Greek: ) is an island located in the Gulf of Elounda in north-eastern Crete, in Lasithi, next to the town of Plaka.The island is further assigned to the area of Kalydon.It is near the Spinalonga peninsula ("large Spinalonga") which often causes confusion as the same name is used for both.. During Venetian rule, salt was harvested While youre there, dont miss the opportunity to explore the neighborhoods. Time Required: 04:00 Hrs. Stroll the towns neighborhood and gander at buildings that show off architecture from hundreds of years ago. WebSpinalonga (Greek: ) is an island located in the Gulf of Elounda in north-eastern Crete, in Lasithi, next to the town of Plaka.The island is further assigned to the area of Kalydon.It is near the Spinalonga peninsula ("large Spinalonga") which often causes confusion as the same name is used for both.. During Venetian rule, salt was harvested If weather is good, it is open on weekends. National / regional public financial support | N.A. WebFrom 1715 onwards, Spinalonga was settled by Muslims, who built their houses on the foundations of the Venetian buildings. Leaving the capital city, enjoy a scenic drive to one of the nearby local villages where your boat to Spinalonga departs. Nicolaos 6 In olden times, people with leprosy were forced to live on Spinalonga, a fortress island in Mirabello Bay. Finally, I decided to go and see it. Start date | 2021-01-01 These are small group tours and include private transfers to and from your Heraklion accommodation offering flexible pickup times. Discover its long history from your guide on this fascinating day trip from the Heraklion area. There, he experienced the tragic reality and was interested in upgrading the conditions of residence and treatment of the unfortunate people of Spinalonga. The first boats to arrive are from Plaka as they take the workers in. At Agios Nikolaos bus station, transfer to a bus that runs to Elounda. The island has a small beach where visitors can swim and sunbathe. WHICH ARE THE BEST GREEK ISLANDS IN OCTOBER TO VISIT? Ticket Price: 20 EUR. Whether you take a guided tour or explore on your own, Spinalonga despite its fantastic views and quaint ruined architecture can still send a shiver up your spine, no less than when you disembark from the boat and make your way through the entrance gate along the gloomy entrance tunnel (known as Dantes Gate) that marked the loss of freedom for the lepers Imagine walking through here knowing that this was a one-way passage and that you wouldnt be allowed to leave. At Spinalonga, investigate the historic site and an islet thats completely abandoned, houses and shops included. Spinalonga (Prefecture of Lasithi)
No regular ferries; The trips to Spinlaonga from Agios Nikolaos are more organized tours including a lunch and the opportunity to swim at one of the beaches along the way; For example you can start this tour from Agios Nikolaos, and it includes lunch and wine tasting - check out program and book During the Italian-German occupation, the occupiers did not dare to release the lepers, and were forced to take care of them, since the opposite village of Plaka was evacuated. Spinalonga was a vast slum, a cemetery for lepers, without any organization, without medication for the sicks, without hope. Once arriving on the island, trek the archaeological ruins of the once-leper colony. It is the (unnamed) setting of Ali Smith's short story The Touching of Wood (in Free Love and Other Stories, 1995). Crete without the gods (1935). WebSpinalonga (Kalydon) 4.5 9,829 reviews #1 of 22 things to do in Elounda Historic Sites Islands Closed now 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Visit website Call Email Write a review About Suggested duration 2-3 hours Suggest edits to improve what we show. However, once on the island they received food, water, medical attention and social security payments. Spinalonga is also known as the Leper Island, as that is where lepers from Crete and the rest of Greece were quarantined until 1957. Spinalonga is an excellent and unique example of the use of a historical monument as a leper colony without alterations of its appearance. The Tentative Lists of States Parties are published by the World Heritage Centre at its website and/or in working documents in order to ensure transparency, access to information and to facilitate harmonization of Tentative Lists at regional and thematic levels. WebOpening Hours: Summer: Daily 8:00-19:00.
Though the characters were fictional, the story of an isolated Criterion (i): The fortified islet of Spinalonga is a masterpiece of human ingenuity. Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Phone: +30 2841041773 Fax: +30 2841022462 Tags: Island, Castle, Historical Site, Family And Kids. Olous remained deserted until the mid-15th century, when the Venetians began to construct salt-pans in the shallow and salty waters of the gulf.
There are also boats from the little village of Plaka just north of Elounda. There are also several cafes and souvenir shops on the island and actually the water there is perfect for swimming too. Walk through the tiny church and check out the cemetery at the back. Once concluding your venture around the stone-cobbled isle, youll jump back on the boat and head for Vassilakis Estate (an olive oil factory) or Scalani Hills Boutari Winery for a three-glass wine tasting. Visit the only hospital on the island a bit further down from the settlement, and discover where the community theatre once operated. In winter, the facility opens only on request for groups. There are also tours that pick you up from different places in Crete such as: Prices and departure times may vary depending on the tour operator and the type of tour you choose. The salterns of Elounda were of foremost importance for Venetians, who wanted to continue trading salt in East and West Europe, especially after having lost the salterns of Cyprus. WebFind all the transport options for your trip from Plka to Spinalonga Island right here. The tours typically include round-trip boat transportation to and from Spinalonga, as well as guided tours of the island.
Create an account to save tours, things to do and travel guides to your wishlist. Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation in selected locations on Crete in the morning. WebSpinalonga Opening Hours and Prices Opening Hours: From April 1st until October 31st, 8.30 am 8.30 pm each day From Nov. 1st to Mar. During the day, a professional guide will take care of you and provide detailed information about Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. Initially, patients arrived from Crete, but after the unification with Greece in 1913 patients also came from the mainland. Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation in selected locations on Crete in the morning. To get to Spinalonga you must take the boat from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda or Plaka. If you visit Spinalonga outside the tourist season, the chances are you wont meet anyone except the archaeological team working there. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Many day trips and tours are running during this time, and the weather in Crete is stunning. These are March 6, April 18, May 18, the last weekend of September and Oct. 28, as well as the first Sunday of every month from Nov.1 to March 31. No regular ferries; The trips to Spinlaonga from Agios Nikolaos are more organized tours including a lunch and the opportunity to swim at one of the beaches along the way; For example you can start this tour from Agios Nikolaos, and it includes lunch and wine tasting - check out program and book Telephone: +30 28410 22462 - 28361 - 90511
Apparently Kolokytha used to be joined to Spinalonga (which is why it shared the same name), but in 1526 the Venetians cut a canal between the two, forming this small island. Contribute/Review. In 1976 Spinalonga was designated an archaeological site and started to see tourists but it wasnt until Victoria Hislop wrote her book (resulting in a hit Greek TV series) that Spinalonga became truly popular with thousands of people now visiting each day during the peak Summer season. The publication of the Tentative Lists does not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever of the World Heritage Committee or of the World Heritage Centre or of the Secretariat of UNESCO concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its boundaries. It is very beautiful. As of 2002, few lazarettos remain in Europe. P7_initTP(10,0); With the raised interest of many tourists, the local authorities started in 70s to systematically repair and renovate old buildings, fortifications of the Venetian walls, old houses and roads, and tore the buildings of the hospital down. Other museums and archaeological sites in the same prefecture. Some of the companies that offer boat tours to Spinalonga from Plaka include: Apart from the Museum and a general look around the town try and make sure your see the following: The Venetian harbor, a small harbor that was also used by the Venetians to defend the island against Ottoman invasions. The Star, 46,1,616, (The only one reference concerning the Spinalonga leprosy colony.). There are other nice fortifications to visit in Crete that are not so crowded, The official name of the islet is actually Kalydon (as it used to be attached to it, but the Venetians transformed it into an islet), It is located on the North shore, along the Spinalonga peninsula, Planning info to make the most of your time, Once you are on the island, the doors of the archaeological sites are opened at least 9am to 5:45pm (what the signed on the door said) but it can be from 8am in Summer (according to the. WebSpinalonga (Kalydon) 4.5 9,829 reviews #1 of 22 things to do in Elounda Historic Sites Islands Closed now 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Visit website Call Email Write a review About Suggested duration 2-3 hours Suggest edits to improve what we show. Welcome to Greece Travel Secrets! Holidays 1 January: closed 6 January: open by arrangement Shrove Monday: open by arrangement 25 March: closed Spinalonga, Crete. Ticket Price: 20 EUR. The price differs based on group size, and the number of destinations visited along the way. The islet was fortified in antiquity, to protect the ancient city of Olous. WebWhat are the opening times? In 1976 it was designated an archaeological site. Remoundakis, after the closure of Spinalonga in 1957, was admitted to the Leper Hospital of Agia Varvara. Known in the past as the island of the outcasts, it covers an area of 8,500 square meters and is most famous for housing the leper colony that Victoria Hislop wrote about in her bestselling book The Island. The last inhabitant, a priest, left the island in 1962.
As regards the operation of Spinalonga as a leper colony, it may be compared to Robben Island, South Africa, which is recorded on the World Heritage List as a symbol of the triumph of the human spirit, freedom and democracy over oppression, and was used as a prison and as a hospital for sufferers from leprosy and chronic and mental conditions. Spinalonga has appeared in novels, television series, and a short film. Bring extra spending money for shopping, or lunch and entrance tickets if not included in the tour price. In winter, the facility opens only on request for groups. The visit to the monument depends on the weather conditions and the itineraries of the boats that perform the transports on the island. Spinalonga belonged to Olounda, which flourished until the 8th century when the threat of Arab pirates forced residents to move away from the beach. After booking my 4-day trip to Crete, it took me about a minute to also book a Spinalonga tour from Heraklion.. In 1897, French military forces were installed on the island for about one year. Repairs and alterations to the fort were made before and during the Cretan War (1645-1669). From Elounda harbour, there is a boat to Spinalonga every 30 minutes throughout the summer. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. During the journey from Heraklion to Spinalonga, visit two or three picturesque towns and spend an hour or two walking the cobbled streets. Many died 'alive' in terrible pain, deformed and fragmented. WebSpinalonga is open: Sun - Sat 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Buy tickets in advance on Tripadvisor. It is a source of inspiration for authors, film directors, artists and musicians. Explore the entire list of places to visit in Crete before you plan your trip. This situation began altering after 1936, the year when the patient Epaminondas Remoundakis, a third year law student, arrived in Spinalonga and who founded the "Fraternity of Spinalonga Patients and struggled over the following years for improving the living conditions of patients. The history of the island still inspires awe. Winter: Closed in winter (November 1st - March 31st). By creating an account you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. None Italian or German dared to enter the colony. At strategic points in the fortifications are set the Michel and Moceniga or Barbariga demilunes, major works of fortification architecture. When is the best time to visit Spinalonga? Initially, patients arrived from Crete, but after the unification with Greece in 1913 patients also came from the mainland. As regards the fortifications alone, Spinalonga presents similarities to the fortification complex on the Suomenlinna group of islands off Helsinki (Finland, 18th c.), a World Heritage Property. Their hard, wretched life did not weaken their will to live. Moreover, due to the leper hospital, Spinalonga is a monument to human pain. Toilets and a shop selling overpriced soft drinks and snacks are located outside of the main entrance. You will need to pay for all other costs like entrance fees, boat tickets and lunch, among others. Being the general secretary of the Hansen Association, he went to Spinalonga. If weather is good, it is open on weekends. Nicolaos 6 In olden times, people with leprosy were forced to live on Spinalonga, a fortress island in Mirabello Bay. When is the best time to visit Spinalonga? It symbolizes the concept of incarceration and is synonymous with torment. Well, it is one of the most visited places in Crete so there are groups of tourists everywhere.
After the Leper Hospital was shut down in 1957, the islet remained deserted and uninhabited. The island is open from 8 AM to 6 PM for some public holidays. From this point, revel in the views of deep blue ocean hues. What makes Spinalonga a monument of outstanding universal value is the fact that architectural remains of different historical periods and cultural influences coexist and converse on the island. The village flourished after the mid-19th century, until by 1881 it housed a population of 1,112 and was the largest Muslim commercial centre of Merabello Bay. Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an informed There are also boats from the little village of Plaka just north of Elounda. According to a second weaker interpretation, Spinalonga derives its name by paraphrasing "Stin Elounda, meaning In Elounda. Pass by gorgeous lakes and stop at an old fishing village that is filled with fancy stays and cool cafes in its modern-day. Life on Spinalonga for the leper colony would have been very difficult and isolating. The same applies to the islands of Chacachacare (Trinidad and Tobago), Sorok (South Korea), Fantome (Australia), Quail (New Zealand) and Culion (Philippines). Entrance Fee (): 8, Reduced 4 Website: odysseus.culture.gr e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. WebTimings: 09:30 am - 04:00 pm Details. We were together. 
In 1976 it was designated an archaeological site. Remoundakis, after the closure of Spinalonga in 1957, was admitted to the Leper Hospital of Agia Varvara. Known in the past as the island of the outcasts, it covers an area of 8,500 square meters and is most famous for housing the leper colony that Victoria Hislop wrote about in her bestselling book The Island. The last inhabitant, a priest, left the island in 1962.