33 Ghost Towns That Have Become Stunning Tourist Attractions

29. Spinalonga, Greece – The Island of Farewell

Located off the coast of Crete in the Gulf of Elounda, Spinalonga is an island fortress with a layered and somber history. Originally a Venetian stronghold built to protect the salt pans of Elounda, it later fell under Ottoman rule. However, Spinalonga is most famous for its role as one of Europe's last active leper colonies, operating from 1903 until 1957. People afflicted with leprosy were forcibly isolated here, creating a unique, self-contained community born of necessity and sorrow. After a cure was found and the last inhabitants left, the island became uninhabited. Today, Spinalonga is a major tourist attraction accessible by boat. Visitors can explore the remarkably preserved Venetian fortifications, Ottoman-era structures, and the poignant remnants of the leper colony, including homes, shops, and the disinfectant station, offering a powerful glimpse into a history of isolation and human resilience.