DMC Italy’s Best recounts one of the Venetian Lagoon’s little-known islands, San Servolo: a botanical escape with a fascinating history.   

What is the local hidden treasure? 
The unique character of Venice’s cityscape comes from its 118 developed islands. What some don’t know is that the city’s borders also include about 60 other islands scattered around the lagoon, some of which are inhabited. One of these is the hidden treasure of San Servolo, located in the southern lagoon not far from San Marco and the Lido of Venice.  

The island has hosted various religious communities since the 9th century. At the beginning of the 1700s it was used by the Venice Republic as a military hospital, but increasingly it was chosen as the holding place for so-called “madmen”, eventually becoming a provincial asylum. To meet the growing demand for patients and to provide adequate care, the island was manually expanded and quadrupled in size, creating a large park and several building complexes. 

In 1978, the laws in Italy enforced the closure of all asylums. The island of San Servolo became the subject of restoration and began to host various institutions, such as the San Servolo Foundation and the Venice International University, a higher education consortium in which many Italian and international universities participate. 

What makes it so special? 
The island’s once tumultuous past has bloomed into a serene green space so accessible from the city. The park is a botanic haven, and its microclimate permits such biodiversity where even tropical plants can grow. The atmosphere is vibrant thanks to the many international university students who visit, yet it is also beloved by the Venetians. In recent years, the island’s spaces have been used to organize summer camps for children, courses and workshops for families, and private events.  

In addition to the wonderful park, you can visit the ancient church, the 19th century pharmacy, and the unique Museum of Madness which recounts the history of the island. 

How can visitors best experience this gem? 
For plant-lovers, May to September is the best time to enjoy the blooms. However, even the winter months can surprise with a magnificent sunset over the lagoon and a magical view of the city and its many small islands.

For more information about Italy’s Best, click here.