Sant’Ariano: The Forgotten Island of the Northern Lagoon

Hidden among the calm waters of the northern Venetian lagoon, the island of Sant’Ariano is a place shrouded in mystery and history. Covering roughly 2.5 hectares, this small island lies between Torcello and the nearby island of La Cura, north of the Centrega marsh. Once connected to neighboring islands by bridges, today it appears as a solitary, wild corner, covered by dense vegetation that conceals its secrets.

A Monastic Past

The history of Sant’Ariano begins in the 12th century, when a Benedictine nunnery was founded on the island. However, in 1439, the nuns were relocated due to scandals regarding their conduct. Later, the island became the site of an ossuary, where remains from various cemeteries of Venice were stored. This use continued until the 20th century, when the island was finally abandoned and became inaccessible to the public.

An Island Full of Legends

Beyond its documented history, Sant’Ariano is surrounded by legends that add to its allure. It is said that the island was once infested with snakes, with hundreds reportedly dwelling within its walls. While these stories are intriguing, they contribute to the air of mystery surrounding this forgotten place.

Today

Today, Sant’Ariano remains abandoned, accessible only by boat. Its wild vegetation and the ruins of the old ossuary provide a fascinating glimpse for anyone interested in the history and mysteries of the Venetian lagoon.

Autumn Flavors in Venice: What to Eat in the Lagoon

Autumn in Venice is a magical season: the city is slightly less crowded than in summer, the light becomes warmer, and the air carries the scents of seasonal markets. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the lagoon’s traditional dishes, combining fresh seafood with seasonal ingredients.

Seafood Delights

The lagoon always provides fresh seafood, and in autumn, specialties like cuttlefish, baby octopus, and mussels take center stage. Cuttlefish in its ink is a classic ingredient for unique first courses, such as the famous spaghetti al nero di seppia. Seafood risottos, sometimes enhanced with pumpkin or autumn mushrooms, are also a must-try this season.

Mushrooms and Pumpkin

Autumn is the time of the land as well: mushrooms, chestnuts, and pumpkin become stars of Venetian kitchens. Pumpkin risotto is a classic, while mushrooms are often paired with fresh pasta or served as a simple yet flavorful side dish.

Seasonal Sweets

Desserts follow the rhythm of the season too. Chestnuts, apples, and figs are the base for traditional sweets like fruit tarts or crisp cookies. Tiramisu, though available year-round, can be enriched with autumn fruit syrups or dark chocolate for a seasonal twist.

Wines and Liqueurs

Pairing meals with wines from the Veneto region is essential: full-bodied reds and aromatic whites enhance lagoon dishes. Local liqueurs, such as nocino made from green walnuts, are perfect for warming up on cooler evenings.

Autumn in Venice, therefore, is not only a feast for the eyes among canals and narrow streets but also a delight for the palate: a season where the authentic flavors of the lagoon and Venetian countryside meet in simple yet flavorful dishes.

The Island of San Michele, the Cemetery in Venice

In the quiet waters of the Venetian Lagoon lies San Michele, the island of the dead, Venice’s unique cemetery island.

San Michele was originally accessible only by boat. In the 19th century, as the number of visitors grew and maintenance of the island became more demanding, a simple wooden bridge was constructed to connect the island to the main city.

The bridge’s purpose was practical: it allowed easier transport of people, coffins, and supplies, especially during funerals and commemorative ceremonies. Over time, the bridge had to be rebuilt or reinforced because the wooden structure was constantly affected by the lagoon’s tides, humidity, and salt air, which weakened the materials.

The decision to avoid building a permanent structure was made in the 19th century because the island is a sacred cemetery, and authorities wanted to preserve its peaceful and solemn character. Moreover, the lagoon’s shifting waters made long-lasting construction difficult.

Today, temporary or modern bridges are sometimes installed for practical reasons: to allow safe access for maintenance, ceremonies, or visitors, especially during high tides or special events. Modern engineering allows these structures to be safe and minimally invasive, respecting the spiritual and historical value of the island while making it accessible when needed.

In this spirit, a new temporary bridge has just been opened, connecting San Michele to Venice for a short period thai is All Saints. This allows visitors to reach the island safely during the holidays honoring the deceased, while preserving the sacred and serene atmosphere of this unique cemetery.