Islands can be more than just land surrounded by water. They often hold secrets. The island of San Nicolò della Cavana carries echoes of Venice’s past.
San Nicolò della Cavana began as a small monastery. It was founded in 1303. Four Benedictine nuns sought refuge here. They were seeking a life of solitude. The harsh environment, however, proved too challenging. After the original nuns passed away, the complex fell into disuse.
In 1432, the Bishop of Torcello, Filippo Paruta, made a change. He closed the monastery. He merged it with Santa Caterina di Mazzorbo. The island remained largely abandoned for two centuries.
Then, in 1648, two followers of Saint Paul arrived. They sought to establish a hermitage. But, they too, found the island unsuitable. They departed. Two more hermits followed. They also proved irresolute.
The early 18th century brought a new chapter to San Nicolò della Cavana. In 1712, a Venetian man named Piero Tabacco sought permission to build a church here. He dedicated it to the Madonna del Rosario. Tabacco claimed he was drawn to the island. He said he heard a bell while passing by boat.
But San Nicolò della Cavana’s religious chapter was not destined to last. Napoleon suppressed the complex. It was demolished in the mid-19th century. The island took on a new purpose. A powder magazine was constructed. It served this function until World War II.
Today, San Nicolò della Cavana bears the marks of time and conflict. The long roofless ruin of the powder magazine remains. Erosion has further divided the island. Now, there are two islands. A guardhouse ruin stands on the smaller one.
Despite its state, San Nicolò della Cavana has captured artistic interest. Giacomo Guardi immortalized it. His painting, “Island of San Nicolò della Cavana or Madonna del Monte”, now resides in the Morgan Library. The painting offers a glimpse of the island’s past.
Plans have been made to revitalize the island. However, they have not yet materialized. San Nicolò della Cavana remains a silent witness. It is a reminder of Venice’s layered history. A history of faith, solitude and strategic importance. It is a place where the echoes of the past linger in the sea breeze.