A phoenix risen from the ashes, the Spinalonga fortress was first built with the remains of the ancient Byzantine city walls in 1579. It was provisioned with canons to adapt to the wildfire spread of gunpower usage in the 16th Century. Now, what remains are the proud ramparts which continue to ward the Spinalonga islet from the harsh waves, an architectural site and a potential World Heritage site.

Built from stone and mortar, the solid stone structure has lasted against the elements for over 400 years. Visitors can make their way through the winding slab pavements with numerous spots for breathtaking pictures of the harbor of Elounda. Walk past the carefully arranged houses within each shelved layer of the fortress, taking note of the typical Balkan architecture in the straight edges and marked symmetry of the houses. At dusk, one can see the fiery glow of the sun as it slips past the horizon reflected as orange ink spilt across the blue waters. With its rich history and complicated past, Spinalonga Fortress leaves much to be discovered by its visitors.