When Victoria Hislop’s bestselling novel The Island captivated readers worldwide, fans dreamed of seeing Spinalonga’s haunting story brought to life on screen. That dream became reality with “To Nisi”, the Greek television adaptation that transformed Hislop’s powerful narrative into one of the most compelling dramas ever produced in Greece. This DVD series doesn’t just tell a story. It immerses you in the authentic culture, breathtaking landscapes, and deeply human experiences that make Crete so unforgettable.
“To Nisi” achieved something rare in television: it honored its literary source while creating something entirely new and cinematic. The series became a cultural phenomenon, breaking viewership records and proving that Greek drama could rival any international production in emotional depth and visual beauty.
If you’ve been waiting to watch this popular series after reading Victoria Hislop’s book but don’t comprehend Greek, you can now experience this masterful Greek drama as a DVD series with English subtitles. You can purchase the complete DVD set online from Greek Music Shop, Agios Nikolaos, Crete, bringing this extraordinary story directly to your living room.
If you’re visiting Crete for holidays, you can also stop by the physical shop in Agios Nikolaos, just a few kilometers from Spinalonga itself. The shop operates with limited hours, so it’s best to contact Panagiotis in advance at +30 697 968 7576 (also available via WhatsApp and Viber).
Now, let’s explore eight compelling reasons why To Nisi deserves a spot at the top of your must-watch list.
1. A Gripping Story Rooted in History
“To Nisi” (The Island) doesn’t just dramatize history, it resurrects it with breathtaking authenticity. Based on Victoria Hislop’s acclaimed novel, this single-season production originally aired from 2010-2011 and consists of 26 episodes (each running 45-50 minutes). The series plunges viewers into the profound true story of Spinalonga, Crete’s infamous leper colony that operated from 1903 to 1957. This isn’t your typical historical drama that glosses over difficult truths.
The series brings to life the echoes of real families who lived in nearby Plaka and Elounda, exploring the crushing social stigma and heartbreaking challenges faced by those exiled to Spinalonga. The Lazarides and Petrakis families may be fictional, but they’re deeply inspired by actual testimonials from residents of the area. Their stories echo the remarkable resilience of real people who were shunned by society yet somehow built a supportive micro-community on this isolated island.
Through powerful dramatic flashbacks, viewers discover how outsiders viewed Spinalonga and witness how leprosy transformed both sufferers and their loved ones across Crete. This historical lens offers a rare glimpse into a part of Cretan history that’s often overshadowed by more famous archaeological sites and tourist destinations.
2. Stunning Cretan Scenery
Filmed largely on location in Eastern Crete, “To Nisi” delivers visual authenticity that’s absolutely unmatched. The camera lovingly lingers on Plaka’s ancient stone alleys, the dramatic coast of Elounda, the sparkling Mirabello Bay, and of course, the haunting ruins on Spinalonga itself. Sweeping shots of Spinalonga’s Venetian fortress, the pastel shores of Plaka, and sun-drenched olive groves perfectly capture Crete’s rugged, mystical beauty.
What makes this even more special is that everything you see is real and accessible. Scenes in Plaka’s harbor showcase traditional fishing boats and family-run tavernas that you can actually visit today. The narrow channel to Spinalonga, with its luminous turquoise water, serves as both a breathtaking backdrop for the series and a highlight destination for travelers exploring this remarkable corner of Crete.
3. Complex and Relatable Characters
“To Nisi” (The Island) presents a rich tapestry of characters representing every layer of Cretan society, from proud village elders to rebellious youth and social outcasts. Maria Petraki (Youlika Skafida), a compassionate and strong-willed woman, makes the heart-wrenching choice to exile herself to Spinalonga to join her mother, directly challenging the brutal stigma surrounding leprosy. Her character embodies the fierce loyalty and sacrifice that defines Cretan family bonds.
The supporting characters add incredible depth to this emotional landscape. Eleni Petraki, Maria’s mother, represents maternal sacrifice and dignity even in the face of devastating adversity, while Manolis, Maria’s love interest, must navigate the impossible tension between loyalty, fear, and crushing societal pressure. Even the villagers of Plaka feel authentic, some welcoming and others fearful, reflecting the genuine spectrum of local attitudes that oral histories from East Crete have preserved.
4. Exceptional Acting Performances
Another reason why you need to watch this Greek DVD series (now available with English subtitles from Greek Music Shop, Agios Nikolaos, Crete) is the absolutely stellar cast that brings these characters to vivid life. Youlika Skafida (Maria), Tasos Nousias (Giorgis), and the late Stelios Mainas (Kostis) lead a powerhouse ensemble that drew widespread acclaim for their emotional depth and raw authenticity.
Skafida’s restrained yet powerful scenes as Maria confronting both epidemic and exile have been universally praised by critics and audiences alike. Tasos Nousias, playing Maria’s father Giorgis, masterfully brings to life the archetype of the Cretan fisherman: hardworking, fiercely loyal, and protective of his family at all costs. These aren’t just performances, they’re transformations that make you forget you’re watching actors at all.
5. Artistic Direction and Cinematography
Director Thodoris Papadoulakis built his artistic vision by working closely with local historians and craftspeople, ensuring every detail feels authentically Cretan. The costumes, interiors, and everyday objects were sourced from or directly inspired by the region, grounding the drama in real Cretan material culture rather than generic Mediterranean props. This meticulous attention to authenticity shows in every frame.
The series masterfully uses natural light and the region’s dramatic contrasts, from sunlit hills to shadowed courtyards, to evoke the emotional landscape and honor Crete’s rich visual tradition. The soundtrack, composed by Minos Matsas, weaves in traditional musical motifs, such as laments and the haunting sounds of the lyra, to create profound emotional resonance in key scenes. These elements help immerse viewers in the authentic atmosphere and spirit of Crete.
6. A Unique Blend of Tragedy and Hope
Despite its tragic premise, “To Nisi” (The Island) is ultimately a story of redemption, solidarity, and enduring hope found within the darkest circumstances. While the series doesn’t shy away from themes of isolation, suffering, and fear, it masterfully balances heartbreak with genuine optimism that leaves viewers deeply moved yet surprisingly inspired.
Life on Spinalonga, despite the devastating isolation, comes alive with scenes of community, children’s laughter, shared meals, and traditional Cretan songs echoing even behind the walls of quarantine. The moments when villagers quietly support the sufferers, rather than ostracizing them completely, beautifully reflect core Cretan values of filoxenia (hospitality) and remarkable resilience. This isn’t false hope or sugar-coating, it’s the authentic human spirit that somehow flourishes even in the most challenging conditions.
7. Faithful Adaptation of a Beloved Novel
Victoria Hislop’s (author of “The Island”) decision to entrust the adaptation to a Greek production team proved brilliant, ensuring the series stayed true to its Cretan roots rather than succumbing to Hollywood glamour. Her commitment to authenticity over international glitz has been universally praised by fans worldwide. Hislop insisted the production use authentic Cretan locations, dialect, and traditions, honoring the island’s identity and the local community that inspired her novel.
The adaptation process was remarkably thorough, drawing on extensive interviews with Spinalonga’s last survivors whose personal insights shaped both dialogue and plot development. Hislop herself visited Plaka repeatedly, consulting with local historians and craftspeople to ensure every detail, from period costumes to traditional bread recipes, remained rooted in real Cretan life.
While the series expands on certain characters and adds visual storytelling elements that work beautifully on screen, it preserves the novel’s core storyline and emotional spirit. The DVD series of “To Nisi” focuses entirely on the historical events in early 1900s Crete, removing the book’s present-day storyline to keep viewers fully immersed in Spinalonga’s authentic period setting.
8. A Cultural Milestone for Greek Television
“To Nisi” became nothing short of a cultural phenomenon in Greece, shattering viewership records and setting new standards for Greek television production. The series premiere drew an incredible 3.88 million viewers, representing 34.9% of the entire television-viewing population. Even more impressive, it achieved a 61.7% share rating, meaning over six in ten Greeks with their TVs on were watching “To Nisi” during its debut.
The series’ impact extended far beyond television screens. Following the broadcast, Spinalonga became the second most visited site in Crete (after Knossos) and ranked as the sixth most visited tourist destination in all of Greece.
This dramatic surge in cultural tourism, with visitors eager to experience the landscapes and authentic history depicted in the series, proves the show’s remarkable power to connect audiences with real places and stories. As Greece’s most expensive TV production with a budget around €4 million, “To Nisi” paved the way for more ambitious Greek productions and inspired filmmakers to explore their own local history and folklore with newfound confidence.
Where To Buy “To Nisi” (The Island) DVD Set with English Subtitles
Although my understanding of the Greek language has improved drastically during the past year, I had been really hoping to be able to watch this masterpiece with English subtitles so I wouldn’t miss any nuanced details or emotional dialogue. Many of you have been asking me where you could grab a copy, and I was absolutely thrilled when I finally discovered this was possible. I quickly placed my order to make sure it wouldn’t run out!
After speaking with Panagiotis, the owner of Greek Music Shop in Agios Nikolaos, I asked him to stock up so I could share this incredible find with my followers who have been eagerly waiting to get their hands on a copy for so long. He’s been incredibly helpful in making sure these DVD sets with English subtitles remain available for international fans of Cretan culture and storytelling. The shop also carries a wonderful selection of Greek music CDs and vinyl records for those looking to explore more of Greece’s rich cultural heritage.
Remember: If you’re visiting Crete and want to stop by the shop in person, just a few kilometers from Spinalonga itself, advance coordination is essential. Contact Panagiotis at +30 697 968 7576 (also available via WhatsApp and Viber) to arrange your visit.
Bonus tip:
Panagiotis has also mentioned that “One August Night”, the highly anticipated sequel to “To Nisi” which aired from 2022-2023, will soon be available with English subtitles. I’ll be sure to let you know as soon as this becomes available for purchase!
Conclusion
“To Nisi” stands as a masterpiece that transcends typical television drama, offering viewers an authentic window into Cretan history, culture, and the resilient human spirit. With its stunning cinematography, exceptional performances, and deep respect for local traditions, this series proves that the most powerful stories often come from the most unexpected places. Now that it’s finally available with English subtitles, there’s never been a better time to experience this remarkable piece of Greek television history. Happy watching!
VISIT THE REAL SPINALONGA: A DAY TRIP FROM HERAKLION
After reading “The Island” by Victoria Hislop, or watching “To Nisi,” many viewers feel compelled to visit the actual locations where this powerful story unfolded. If you’re planning a trip to Crete, there’s no better way to experience Spinalonga than this comprehensive day tour that takes you to all the key locations featured in the series.
This unforgettable day trip combines the charming town of Agios Nikolaos (where you can visit the Greek Music Shop), the laid-back fishing village of Elounda, and a boat journey across the stunning Mirabello Bay to historic Spinalonga itself. You’ll walk the same paths as Maria, Eleni, and the other characters, experiencing firsthand the haunting beauty and powerful history that Victoria Hislop brought to life in her novel.
What’s included:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from 11 locations
- Comfortable transport and boat ride across Mirabello Bay
- Knowledgeable multilingual guide (English, French, German & more)
- Free time in Agios Nikolaos & Elounda
- Swimming stop on the return cruise
- Entry to Spinalonga (€20) not included
From just €38 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours before. This stress-free adventure is perfect for those staying around Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, and nearby areas.
Book your Spinalonga adventure here.
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Further reading:
Complete Guide to Spinalonga Island: Crete’s Historic Gem
Spinalonga Island Entrance Fee More Than Doubles for 2025: What Visitors Need to Know
From Lancashire to Spinalonga: Meet Juliet Carolan, Author of ‘Footsteps of Fate’
