L’Island of Santo Spirito, located in the Venetian lagoon, has a history dating back to the 12th century. Initially the island was home to a community of Canons Regular, but over the centuries it has seen the succession of various religious congregations, including the Cistercians and the Hermits. The latter, who arrived in 1430, rebuilt the church, adorning it with works of art by great artists such as Palma the Elder and Titian, then transferred to the Salute when, in 1656, Pope Alexander VII suppressed the order of the Hermits. The island, however, remained an important religious center until the arrival of Napoleonwho drove out the monks.
The decline of the Island of Santo Spirito after Napoleon
With the Napoleonic occupation, the island underwent a drastic change. The church and the monastery were plundered and the island was assigned to the Navy, turning into a military garrison. During the Second World War, its function changed further, becoming a powder magazine. This period marked the beginning of a long decline, which led to the gradual abandonment of the island.
The sale announcement
Today, the Island of Santo Spirito is for sale for 9 million euroswith the auction for “irrevocable purchase offers” open until June 25th. The island, which extends for just under 24,000 square metres, represents a unique opportunity for those wishing to invest in a piece of Venetian history. The sale is managed by the Quimmo Agency of Faenza, on behalf of Poveglia Srl, the company that purchased the island from the military state property in the early 2000s.
Recovery projects
In recent years, the possible redevelopment of the island for residential purposes has been widely discussed. In 2014, the Recovery Plan received approval from the Municipality of Venice, paving the way for the construction of a residential complex capable of hosting almost 150 people. This plan involves the renovation of pre-nineteenth-century buildings, the restoration of six existing buildings and the creation of new infrastructure, including a dock for future inhabitants.
Investment opportunities
The current sales offer of the Island of Santo Spirito represents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of Venetian history. With residential permits already approved and a well-defined recovery plan, the island could be transformed into an exclusive residential complex or a prestigious hotel. Interested buyers have time until June 25th to submit their offerswith the possibility of giving new life to this jewel of the Venetian lagoon.
The future of this island will depend on the vision and commitment of the new owners, who will have the opportunity to preserve and enhance a unique heritage in the heart of Venice.
*Top image – credits to @ricroirig
