Time Required: 04:00 Hrs. Its easy to arrange a boat tour of Spinalonga while on Crete. The archaeological site remains closed between November 1st and March 31st, it opens only on request for groups. The total travel time on the roads is over three hours. Discover its long history from your guide on this fascinating day trip from the Heraklion area. "The Spinalonga Blues; notes from the field". numbness, loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and atrophy, which can make it difficult for sufferers to feel pain, temperature changes, and other sensations, often increasing the risk of injury. None Italian or German dared to enter the colony. From Agios Nikolaos bus station, transfer to a bus that goes to Plaka. 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. The stones and the rocks in the empty houses hide and do not show the horrors of yesterday, the laments and the cries because of the pains in the body of hundreds patients. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. It is no coincidence that the small island of Giudecca near Venice was also known as Spinalonga. Entrance Fee: Adults 8.00, concession 4.00 How to get to Spinalonga The island has a small beach where visitors can swim and sunbathe. There are several boat tour operators that offer daily trips to the island from the towns of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos, and you can also catch a boat from Plaka Beach. Due to its location at the mouth of the natural port of Elounda, the history of Spinalonga goes as far back as antiquity when the islet contained an ancient acropolis and protected the ancient sunken city of Olous. According to another interpretation the name of the island is derived from its shape, like a long thorn (spina longa), but this theory is not widely held. Winter: The site is closed. 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. In 1903, it was converted into a leper colony, where people with leprosy were sent to live in isolation from society. Being the general secretary of the Hansen Association, he went to Spinalonga. 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. Premium Joomla Templates FREE High-quality Joomla! Before youre dropped back in Heraklion, relax, drink, eat and be merry with lunch and wine tasting at a vineyard in Plaka. There are no scheduled boat trips to Spinalonga in the winter, and you will have to find a boat owner to take you across. It is sure to be an enjoyable experience especially for history and architecture enthusiasts. Spinalonga (Prefecture of Lasithi)
These are small group tours and include private transfers to and from your Heraklion accommodation offering flexible pickup times.
WHICH ARE THE BEST GREEK ISLANDS IN OCTOBER TO VISIT? Tourist boats depart from all three towns on a daily basis (every 30 minutes from Elounda). Elounda Bay, Elounda, Crete 72053, Greece, Firkas Fortress And Maritime Museum Of Crete. Leaving the capital city, enjoy a scenic drive to one of the nearby local villages where your boat to Spinalonga departs. The best Cretan beaches. If you continue browsing this site you agree with the use of cookies in this website. WebSpinalonga discounts - what to see at Elounda - check out 5 reviews and 19 photos for Spinalonga - popular attractions, hotels, and restaurants near Spinalonga Spinalonga attraction reviews - Spinalonga tickets - Spinalonga discounts - Spinalonga transportation, address, opening hours - attractions, hotels, and food near Spinalonga - Trip.com Repairs and alterations to the fort were made before and during the Cretan War (1645-1669). Public buses only run from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos. Holidays 1 January: closed 6 January: open by arrangement Shrove Monday: open by arrangement 25 March: closed and Werner Herzog's experimental short film Last Words. Some tours pit stop in Plaka or Elounda too.
Finally, in 1957, with the discovery of antibiotics and after all lepers were cured, the leper colony closed and the island was deserted. Entrance Fee: Adults 8.00, concession 4.00 How to get to Spinalonga
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. Start exploring Cretes eastern coastline with a private pickup from your hotel in Heraklion in the morning. Initially, patients arrived from Crete, but after the unification with Greece in 1913 patients also came from the mainland. Spinalonga is an island with a rich history. WebSpinalonga is open: Sun - Sat 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Buy tickets in advance on Tripadvisor. Ask a Question. 
This number brings the island in the first five Byzantine / post-Byzantine archaeological sites in Greece. Spinalonga Adult ticket 8 , reduced ticket 4 . The island is open from 8 AM to 6 PM for some public holidays. The island is further assigned to the area of Kalydon. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the island, while the sea voyage sometimes includes a sail around the Kolokytha Peninsula. Discover its long history from your guide on this fascinating day trip from the Heraklion area. We want you to experience the famous Greek Filotimo before you even get there. From there, you can either catch a boat to Spinalonga or transfer to a bus to Plaka or Elounda. The strategic location of the place made it a very important port and base during its hay day. The entire islands perimeter is only 1.5 kilometers, so its easy to explore by foot. However, boats from Plaka to the island usually run every 30 minutes, and it takes just five minutes to get to Spingalonga. Spinalonga is a tiny islet not far Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an informed Even today there are buildings from the period of the castle town, as two-storey houses with tall yard walls and shops with wide doors and large windows. In 1903, the Cretan State gathered all lepers who lived in settlements near the major cities of Crete, called Meskinia, and moved them to Spinalonga. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. Though the characters were fictional, the story of an isolated At strategic points in the fortifications are set the Michel and Moceniga or Barbariga demilunes, major works of fortification architecture. The first phase of construction lasted from 1579 until 1586. The visit to the monument depends on the weather conditions and the itineraries of the boats that perform the transports on the island. Trainers are recommended if you want to make the climb up to the tower to enjoy the view, otherwise, flip-flops will suffice. JavaScript must be enabled in order for you to use Google Maps. 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. 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? Initially, patients arrived from Crete, but after the unification with Greece in 1913 patients also came from the mainland. 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 Elounda harbour, there is a boat to Spinalonga every 30 minutes throughout the summer. The Fortress that the Venetians built can still be seen today and served as a military stronghold right through Venetian and then Ottoman rule until the Cretans evicted the few hundred remaining Turks from the island of Spinalonga in 1903. Archaeological Site in Palekastro of Siteia. 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. The Venetians could not understand the expression, so they familiarized it using their own language, and called it spina "thorn" longa "long", an expression that was also maintained by the locals. You will need to pay entrance to visit the historical site. Dannielle is the writer behind While Im Young. From Elounda boats usually depart every 30 minutes with a journey time of 20 minutes whilst from Plaka the journey time is just under 10 minutes Perfect for those who dont have their sea legs! Ask a Question. Open only on request for groups.Summer: From April 1st until October 31th
Opening hours 08:30-18:00 daily
Tuesday: open.The visit to the monument depends on the weather conditions and the itineraries of the boats that perform the transports on the island. 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. WebSPINALONGA, Elounda, Kolokitha, Ag. Today thousands of tourists visit Spinalonga each summer by boat from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and Plaka, for a tour of its ruined buildings, which the Archaeological Service is laboriously trying to maintain. 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 Theres a small museum filled with some photographs from back then, and one or two of the houses have undergone renovation. Welcome to Greece Travel Ideas. Tours from Heraklion to the island, stopping off at one or two towns, are 39 to 115 per person. A cistern from the Venetian areas, an some more recent ones. Discover a fortress and wander through abandoned homes, hospitals and buildings your knowledgeable guide shares stories of its history along the way. Contribute/Review. 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. Winter: Closed in winter (November 1st - March 31st). To get to Spinalonga you must take the boat from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda or Plaka. The tour ends with a drop-off at your accommodation in Heraklion. A boat ride is a no-go if its storming or rough out at sea. People normally club together Agios Nikolaos and Lake Voulismeni while planning their visit to Spinalonga. WebFrom 1715 onwards, Spinalonga was settled by Muslims, who built their houses on the foundations of the Venetian buildings. In winter, the facility opens only on request for groups.
WebFrom 1715 onwards, Spinalonga was settled by Muslims, who built their houses on the foundations of the Venetian buildings. Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation in selected locations on Crete in the morning. In the late 19th century, it was used as a place of exile for political prisoners. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the island, while the sea voyage sometimes includes a sail around the Kolokytha Peninsula. There are several boat tour operators in Elounda that offer daily trips to Spinalonga. Well, it is one of the most visited places in Crete so there are groups of tourists everywhere. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. From this point, revel in the views of deep blue ocean hues. Though the characters were fictional, the story of an isolated By creating an account you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. A story full of pain, screams and death would conquer the island for half a century. 2022 Greece Travel Ideas. Phone: 30-2841041773. Spinalonga is open Monday to Sunday from 8:30 AM to 6 PM during the summer season. Opening hours: From April 1st until October 31st, 08:30-20:00 daily. Heading back to Heraklion in the late afternoon, transfer to your accommodation after a 10-hour day trip. This price does not include the cost of the entrance ticket to the Spinalonga archaeological site, which was 8 in 2017. Living on the island would have been challenging for many reasons. Discover its long history from your guide on this fascinating day trip from the Heraklion area. Phone: 30-2841041773. Spinalonga is open Monday to Sunday from 8:30 AM to 6 PM during the summer season. Archaeology & Arts (online edition, This page was last edited on 11 December 2022, at 21:23. The life of this settlement stopped abruptly because of the political changes that took place in Crete during the last years of the 19th century. The small island of Spinalonga is just off the coast of Crete, which means that it makes for an easy day trip. Many residents had their own homes and there were shops, a school, a market, churches, a cinema, and aKafenio (cafe). Boats to Spinalonga depart from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Plaka daily during the Summer tourist season. In the mid-19th century the island gathered a large number of residents, mostly merchants and sailors, who took advantage of the license. Opening hours: From April 1st until October 31st, 08:30-20:00 daily Click here to book a boat cruise and guided tour to Spinalonga from Agios Nikolaos. [6] In 1881 the 1112 Ottomans formed their own community and later, in 1903, the last Turks left the island. The building of the Spinalonga fort started in 1574, when the Turks invaded Cyprus. it has a long tumultuous history under Venetian and Ottoman ruling. Spinalonga was fortified by the Venetians between 1579-1586 which, along with the fortification of Crete, made up one of the most important Mediterranean defensive sea fortresses of its time. 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. Toilets and a shop selling overpriced soft drinks and snacks are located outside of the main entrance. During the Cretan revolt of 1878, only Spinalonga and the fortress at Ierapetra were not taken by the Christian Cretan insurgents. Spinalonga was deemed the perfect location as it was close enough to shore that patients could easily be transported by boat, supplies could be sent across, plus Spinalonga had the advantage of already having housing due to the previous Muslim inhabitants. Dont stress about figuring out bus timetables and hunting down local boats, instead enjoy a guided tour from Heraklion to Spinalonga in a private vehicle and boat. You can drive from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos, but most boats departing from here to Spinalonga are big cruise liners or those on pre-booked trips. Ticket price given is for the boat ride from Agios Nikolaos. Enjoy something extra and end your day trip to Spinalonga with a private winery or olive oil estate tour tastings included. The islet was fortified in antiquity, to protect the ancient city of Olous. 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. WebFrom Elounda harbour, there is a boat to Spinalonga every 30 minutes throughout the summer. WebOpening Hours The island is accessible from April 1st to October 31st, from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm during fair weather conditions. This email address is being protected from spambots. The book has dominated for 24 weeks in the British top 10 and has been translated into over 15 languages, making Spinalonga and its history known throughout the world. WebSpinalonga discounts - what to see at Elounda - check out 5 reviews and 19 photos for Spinalonga - popular attractions, hotels, and restaurants near Spinalonga Spinalonga attraction reviews - Spinalonga tickets - Spinalonga discounts - Spinalonga transportation, address, opening hours - attractions, hotels, and food near Spinalonga - Trip.com Yes, there are other tours departing from other cities in Greece: Project title | TourScanner Digital Internationalization Remember, back then there was no cure for leprosy. There are also boats from the little village of Plaka just north of Elounda. Email: efalas@culture.gr. Nicolaos 6 In olden times, people with leprosy were forced to live on Spinalonga, a fortress island in Mirabello Bay. In 1715, following a siege, the islet was surrendered to the Ottomans, the Venetian garrison left and the remaining 600 inhabitants were taken captive. 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 Different boats (several companies but one departure point) - generally smaller boats, Different boats (several companies but one departure point) - my boat was large enough and stable, Mix of free and not free carparks around town, 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 -, Choose the car and company you prefer (with enough power for comfort on mountain roads). [citation needed], In 1578 the Venetians charged the engineer Genese Bressani to plan the island's fortifications. There are also boats from the little village of Plaka just north of Elounda. At Spinalonga, investigate the historic site and an islet thats completely abandoned, houses and shops included. The Venetians tried to keep the strategic fort, with the fortresses of Imeri Gramvousa and Souda, hoping to get back the island of Crete in future. Although there was life on Spinalonga until 1957, it remains uninhabited. The last inhabitant, a priest, did not leave the island till 1962, in order to maintain the Greek Orthodox tradition of commemorating a buried person 40 days, 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years after their death. Explore the vineyards, learn about the production of olive oil or visit the cellar at the winery. [7], Spinalonga was one of the last active leper colonies in Europe; others that have survived Spinalonga include Tichileti in eastern Romania, Fontilles in Spain and Talsi in Latvia. [citation needed], The island was subsequently used as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957. It is the (unnamed) setting of Ali Smith's short story The Touching of Wood (in Free Love and Other Stories, 1995). The summer 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. There are several boat tour operators in Agios Nikolaos that offer daily trips to Spinalonga. The former is an emblematic Renaissance fortress, although its seaward defences have a simple layout (a central demilune forming a bent arc), while the design of the latter is extremely simple compared to that of Spinalonga. Spinalonga Adult ticket 8 , reduced ticket 4 . From the 8th century till the Venetian Period, the city does not appear to have had any significant evolution. 251 Cretans were deported to Spinalonga over the next year with the colony peaking at 400 people when Crete became part of Greece in 1913 meaning lepers from all across Greece and later other parts of the world, were deported to Spinalonga making it an International Leper Hospital. Pass by gorgeous lakes and stop at an old fishing village that is filled with fancy stays and cool cafes in its modern-day. [5] After the revolution of 1866 other Ottoman families came to the island from all the region of Mirabello. 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. 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. Reaching the isle, explore the grounds and area unguided, and ride back to Plaka with time for lunch wherever you choose. The island has a historical significance as a leper colony, where people with leprosy were isolated from the rest of society. WebFind all the transport options for your trip from Plka to Spinalonga Island right here. Of roughly similar date to Spinalonga are the fortresses of S. Andrea and S. Felice in the Venetian lagoon, which form part of the full World Heritage List inscription of Venice. Since then, works for improving the condition of buildings on Spinalonga, have never stopped. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission. The tours typically include round-trip boat transportation to and from Spinalonga, as well as guided tours of the island. Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an informed Departing Heraklion in a private vehicle from your hotel, sit back and enjoy being driven from one town to the next, and take your own time checking out different spots on your Crete bucket list. There were also psychological effects, such as stigmatization and discrimination, although this was of course lessened given they were living amongst other sufferers. WebFrom April 1st until October 31th Opening hours 08:30-18:00 daily Tuesday: open. Do read the book or watch the TV show (available in Greek with subtitles) before you go so that you understand the recent history of the island better and understand what youre seeing! Enter a church from the 12th century, built in the style of the Byzantine Empire.
