Unveiling the tumultuous secrets of Spinalonga island

If you ever read the novel “The Island” by Victoria Hislop, the tumultuous history of this enigmatic island off the coast of Crete will intrigue you. I therefore decided to delve a bit deeper into the secret past of Spinalonga. Who would have thought that this popular tourist destination in the golf of Mirabella was once known as the “Island of Lepers”.

History

Once a Venetian fortress, due to its strategic location, Spinalonga guarded the entrance to the Gulf of Elounda. This tiny island with its defensive walls was an ideal stronghold against invasions. We can still see the walls, bastions and intricate fortifications today.

In 1715, the Ottoman Turks captured Spinalonga, taking over the last remaining Venetian fortress and established a small Turkish community. It served as an administrative center to oversee trade and maintain control over the area. They built additional structures and fortifications in which we may see some limited Turkish influence in certain building styles today.

In the early 20th century, when Leprosy broke out, people considered it a highly contagious disease. This belief led to the transformation of Spinalonga into a leprosy colony in 1904. Authorities sent those afflicted to this island for isolation from the rest of society, condemning them to live there for the rest of their days.

Despite their affliction, the residents of the island made the best of their illness, pain, and isolation. Thus creating a unique society based on determination, resilience and hope. They built houses, shops, community centers, a even a hospital. They supported and cared for each other, creating a sense of belonging that helped them physically and emotionally during the hardships they faced.

In the 1940s, they discovered the first effective cure for leprosy with the introduction of a drug called dapsone. This discovery led to the closure of the colony, and the patients were allowed to leave the island. Since then, the island was abandoned for many years.

Today, because of the island’s past, it has become a popular tourist destination. We can walk the paved streets and imagine what life must have been like for the people who were once condemned to live there.

Exploring Spinalonga Today:

Explore the fortifications and walls – Walk along the ramparts and enjoy the panoramic views and crystal clear waters surrounding the island. Walk through Dante’s tunnel/gate.

Stroll through the narrow streets and imagine the residents daily lives.

Explore the abandoned houses some of which still contain furniture and personal items.

Walk through the wards of the hospital and learn about the treatments and equipment that were used at that time.

Visit the Venetian church of Saint George

Visit the museum and learn about Spinalonga’s history through photos, artifacts and exhibits.

Take a guided tour and learn about the island’s history from an expert.

Swim in it’s pebble beaches and shallow waters.

One can easily access Spinalonga island from Plaka, Elounda and Agios Nikolaos. Tourist boats depart from all three towns on a daily basis, every 30 minutes from Elounda. Since there are no hotels on Spinalonga, the tours last only a few hours.

Conclusion

Spinalonga is under consideration to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s important to preserve this legacy and honor these people that despite their shame, sickness and pain that they endured, they were able to achieve a semblance of normalcy in their everyday lives.

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