Скачать или смотреть Spinalonga Island

Spinalonga, also known as Kalydon, is a small island located off the northeastern coast of Crete, Greece. It is perhaps most famous for its historical use as a leper colony during the 20th century. The island's strategic location in the Gulf of Mirabello made it an ideal spot for various purposes throughout history.

Some key points about Spinalonga include:

Venetian Fortress: Spinalonga was originally built as a Venetian fortress in the 16th century to protect the port of Elounda and the eastern coast of Crete from Ottoman invasions. The island's fortifications are well-preserved and make for a popular tourist attraction.

Ottoman Occupation: After the Venetians, the Ottomans took control of the island. It continued to serve as a defensive outpost during this period.

Leper Colony: In the early 20th century, Spinalonga became a leper colony. Patients with leprosy from various parts of Greece were quarantined on the island to prevent the spread of the disease. The colony operated from 1903 until 1957 when a cure for leprosy was discovered.

Abandonment: After the closure of the leper colony, Spinalonga was deserted, and the buildings fell into disrepair.

Tourism: Today, Spinalonga is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take boat trips to the island and explore the well-preserved Venetian fortress, the ruins of the leper colony, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

The history of Spinalonga reflects the complex and diverse history of the Mediterranean region, with its role as a fortress, a refuge for those afflicted by leprosy, and now a symbol of historical preservation and tourism.