Sunday, September 15, 2024
The tiny Greek island of Spinalonga, as soon as a strategic fortress and later a leper colony, is now a haven for darkish tourism. Positioned within the Gulf of Elounda close to Crete, Spinalonga’s historical past as a Venetian protection in opposition to pirates and later as a secluded leper colony between 1903 and 1957 has made it a compelling website for these intrigued by its darkish previous. Also known as the “Island of the Living Dead,” Spinalonga gives guests a glimpse into its haunting historical past, with remnants of the leper colony nonetheless seen right this moment.
The island’s grim historical past is juxtaposed in opposition to its beautiful coastal surroundings. Initially fortified in 1578 by the Venetians to guard the close by port of Historic Olous, Spinalonga later grew to become notorious for housing these troubled by leprosy, a illness that led to widespread isolation. Though the island supplied meals, water, and primary healthcare to its residents, the situations remained harsh, and Spinalonga was deserted after the final leper left in 1962. The island is now accessible through boat from close by cities like Plaka and Elounda, with excursions departing steadily.
Since its abandonment, Spinalonga has garnered consideration as a result of its eerie environment and well-preserved ruins. In 2005, Victoria Hislop’s novel The Island helped to reignite curiosity in its historical past, additional cementing its standing as a darkish tourism vacation spot. Guests right this moment can discover the stays of the colony, together with its fortress, hospital, and residences, whereas imagining the lives of those that had been as soon as confined there.
Spinalonga, now a contender for UNESCO World Heritage Web site standing, continues to attract hundreds of tourists yearly who’re drawn to its tragic previous and beautiful views, making it one in every of Greece’s most intriguing historic websites.
