Spinalonga is a small island located off the northeast coast of the Greek island of Crete. Originally a Venetian fortress, it was later used as a leper colony from 1903 until 1957.
During this time, it became a self-sufficient community with its own infrastructure, including a hospital and a school.
Today, Spinalonga is a popular tourist attraction, with visitors coming to explore the ruins of the old leper colony and learn about the history of the island. The island is accessible by boat from the nearby village of Plaka and there are guided tours available to help visitors navigate the island and understand its history.
One of the most interesting things about Spinalonga is its architecture, which is a mix of Venetian and Ottoman styles. Visitors can explore the old buildings and streets of the leper colony and see how the residents lived, worked, and socialized.