Isola di San Michele

Isola di San Michele, often referred to as Venice's Island of the Dead, is a tranquil and poignant destination steeped in history and serenity. This small island situated in the Venetian Lagoon has been the city's cemetery since the early 19th century, when Napoleon decreed that it was unsanitary to bury the deceased within the confines of Venice proper.

The island, characterized by its cypress-lined pathways and ornate mausoleums, serves as the final resting place for both local Venetians and notable figures, including the composer Igor Stravinsky and the poet Ezra Pound. Visitors to Isola di San Michele are greeted by the striking sight of the 15th-century Church of San Michele in Isola, which is one of the first examples of Renaissance architecture in Venice.

With its quiet canals and reflective ambiance, the island offers a respite from the bustling streets and waterways of Venice. It is accessible by vaporetto, the water bus service that navigates the lagoon, and is often included in the itineraries of those seeking a deeper understanding of Venice's rich cultural tapestry.