Santuario della Beata Vergine delle Grazie

“Islands of Grace”. That’s what they called places like this Santuario della Beata Vergine delle Grazie. This small island, nestled between the Giudecca and San Clemente, might seem unassuming now, but it holds centuries of stories within its shores. Back in the Middle Ages, Venetians literally built this island from the ground up, using rubble and discarded materials. Imagine that, an island born from the city’s leftovers! Originally, it was a humble spot called “Cavana,” possibly a shelter for boats. But its story took a turn in the 13th century, becoming a refuge for pilgrims embarking on journeys to the Holy Land. The island’s destiny as a place of solace was sealed. Over time, the Santuario della Beata Vergine delle Grazie transformed into a convent, its halls echoing with the prayers of the confraternity of San Girolamo di Fiesole. The name “Santa Maria delle Grazie” emerged from a captivating legend. Sailors returning from Constantinople, carrying a revered portrait of the Virgin Mary, experienced a vision. This vision guided them to establish the portrait on this very island. The island even served as the starting point for a grand annual pilgrimage to Assisi, commencing at sunset on July 17th with much fanfare. Sadly, the Santuario della Beata Vergine delle Grazie faced a turbulent fate. Napoleon’s reign brought about its suppression, transforming the religious sanctuary into a military zone. Tragedy struck in 1849 when a catastrophic explosion at the powder magazine shattered the church and surrounding buildings. What you see today are the remnants of a resilient past. The island, though marked by time, still holds the echoes of its history – a testament to Venice’s enduring spirit.