We depart from the beautiful harbor town of Aghios Nikolaos by boat to start our adventure into the past, sailing along the coastal shores of Mirabello Bay we arrive at the Island of Spinalonga, the most visited island of Crete.
Spinalonga is a small island located at the entrance of Elounda lagoon and north of the Gulf of Mirabello. It has an area of 85 acres and its maximum height is 53 meters.
The building of the Spinalonga fort started in 1574, when the Turks invaded Cyprus. Venetians predicted that Turks would start expanding to the West Mediterranean, the building took from 1579 until 1586. Repairs and alterations to the fort were made before and during the Cretan War (1645-1669). The temples of St. Panteleimon and St. George were built during that period. The fort had a double line of walls and towers and had a total of 35 cannons
The history of the island inspires awe. It has been a Venetian fortress, a castle colony, a rebel refuge, a place of exile for lepers,
After our departure from the Island , we drop anchor by the Island of Kolokithia where we can enjoy a swim from the boat and our BBQ meal, before returning to Aghios Nikolaos ….