You can live a whole lifetime trying to be what you think is expected of you. But you will never be ...
You can live a whole lifetime trying to be what you think is expected of you. But you will never be free. May as well go fishing. (Chris Rea) Life's good, isn't it?
Member since:13.04.2006
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I f you happen to be visiting the island fortress of Spinalonga in Northern Crete you will probably be holidaying in the stylish peninsular resort of Agios Nikolaos or Ag. Nik. as the British tourists call it. Or you could be staying in the much smaller, quieter and more laid back resort of Elounda. It is from here that the majority of boat trips to the island depart. You can also take a boat direct from Ag. Nik. or from Plaka.
The island was fortified by the Venetians in 1579 and was finally handed over to the Turks by treaty in 1715. More recently, for the first half of the last century it was a leper colony. The last in Europe , Spinalonga was the prison-like home to leper outcastes even after medicinal advances had rendered this unnecessary.
As you approach the island there is a feeling of hoplessness and doom, as though it is still inhabited by those poor helpless souls cast away to isolation by social stigma and ignorance.
There is not much left of the settlement but what remains is a poignant reminder of collective suffering and isolation. There are many places on the island where one can reflect on the grief and pain of the lepers and feel thankful for our materialistic lifestyles.
Although a little depressing, it is nonetheless a beautiful place to visit and a peaceful alternative to the touristy bustle of Ag. Nik and the busy beach of Elounda.
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Jun 7th, 2006
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