Torcello Island

Overview

Torcello is the most ancient inhabited island in the Venetian lagoon, once a thriving city of 20,000 that predated Venice itself. Today only about a dozen people live on this hauntingly quiet island.

Highlights

• Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: Founded in 639 AD, the oldest building in the lagoon, with stunning 11th-century Byzantine mosaics of the Last Judgment.
• Attila's Throne: A stone seat in the square that, according to legend, was the throne of Attila the Hun.
• Devil's Bridge: An ancient stone bridge without railings, one of only two remaining in Venice.

History

Torcello was settled before Venice, becoming a major trading center in the 7th century. Malaria and silting of its canals led to decline, and by the 15th century most residents had moved to Venice, taking even the stones of their buildings.

Visitor Tips

• Combine with Burano: Torcello is a 5-minute vaporetto hop from Burano — visit both in one trip.
• Locanda Cipriani: The famous restaurant where Hemingway wrote, still serving refined Venetian cuisine.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.