Aspect of the Michiel demi-lune. ©Ephorate of Antiquities of Lasithi

The Michiel demi-lune

The main entrance to the port of Spinalonga is protected by a semicircular bastion located at the island's northern edge, the Michiel demi-lune. This is one of the finest and most fascinating examples of a sea bastion preserved among the fortresses of the Most Serene Republic of Venice. Externally, on the demi-lune's base, an inscription is preserved, commemorating the General Provisioner of the Kingdom of Crete (Provisor Generalis Regni Cretae), Luca Michiel, who supervised the commencement of the fortification works, along with the construction year 1579.

In total, it has seven arched cannon port openings at positions deemed suitable for the entrance's control. Later additions include the embrasures and the wall on the square's north side, which destroys the initial access ramp. There was a small house for the garrison on the square.

Photo Gallery

Northwest aspect of the Michiel demi-lune. ©Ephorate of Antiquities of Lasithi

The Michiel demi-lune from the east in a photograph by G. Gerola in 1901. ©Vikelaia Municipal Library of Heraklion, Archives Department, G. Gerola Collection

Aspect of the Michiel demi-lune from the East. ©Ephorate of Antiquities of Lasithi

The interior of the Michiel demi-lune after restoration works from the top of the island. ©Ephorate of Antiquities of Lasithi.

Northern aspect of the Michiel demi-lune after the restoration works. ©Ephorate of Antiquities of Lasithi.

The inscription mentioning the General Provisioner of the kingdom of Crete (Provisor Generalis Regni Cretae), Luca Michiel, as well as the date of the construction of the demi-lune, in the year 1579. ©Ephorate of Antiquities of Lasithi.