San Michele Island Cemetery

Overview

San Michele is Venice's island cemetery, a walled city of the dead between Venice and Murano. Its cypress-lined paths and elegant tombs create an atmosphere of profound tranquility.

Highlights

• Famous Graves: The resting places of Igor Stravinsky, Sergei Diaghilev, Ezra Pound, and Joseph Brodsky.
• Church of San Michele in Isola: A beautiful early Renaissance church by Mauro Codussi (1469) at the island's entrance.
• Cypress Gardens: Atmospheric walks among centuries-old cypress trees and carved marble monuments.

History

Napoleon decreed in 1807 that Venetians could no longer be buried within the city, designating San Michele as the municipal cemetery. The island was previously home to a Camaldolese monastery.

Visitor Tips

• Vaporetto 4.1 or 4.2: Stop at Cimitero en route to or from Murano.
• Opening Hours: The cemetery closes at 6 PM (4:30 PM in winter) — plan accordingly.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.