What is…
Clauda

also known as: Cauda (Καῦδα), Gavdos, Gavdhos, Gondzo, Clauda-nesa Gaudos, Gaudo-nesi, Gotzo, Bougadoz (Turkish)

Greek: Κλαῦδη —transliteration: Klauda

This is a small Greek island 23 miles south of the western end of the island of Crete.

Modern Gavdos (aka Clauda)—satellite view

The Apostle Paul passed by here on his voyage to Rome, as recorded in the book of Acts.

And running under the shelter of a small island called Clauda, we were scarcely able to get the ship’s boat under control. —Acts 27:16 LSB

They eventually shipwrecked in Melita (Malta).

The modern name for Clauda is Gavdos, an island about 7 miles long and 3 broad. The highest point is 1,132 feet above sea level (345 meters). It has supported a permanent population since Neolithic times and the Bronze Age. Archaeological evidence also shows that the Roman empire was active on the island.

More information

Article Version: June 14, 2024