The fortress of Spinalonga is placed on a small island close to the north-east coast of Crete, close to Agios Nikolaos. It can be accessed by a ferry and can be explored completely. It is definetly worth it to leave the lower areas where a lot of tourists take tours and go around the island and instead climb up a bit, take some steep staircases and roads. With less people around, the ruins offer some pretty spots and views. The fortress was once used as a military establishment, however, it was later a place where leprosy patients were placed and isolated. Several info panels provide interesting background knowledge about the ruins, but there are also guided tours. #spinalonga #crete #architecture #history #hiking #views