Spinalonga Island

The small island of Spinalonga, located in the gulf of Elounda, is a symbolic monument with rich historical heritage. Restored and open to visitors today, Spinalonga was originally formed as an extensive Venetian fortress in the 16th century. It saw residential development but was deserted at the beginning of the 20th century. In 1903, the island began a dramatic new chapter as it was converted into a hospital for patients with Hansen's disease (leprosy) and remained in operation as one until 1957, when a cure was discovered.