Silent, ancient, and deeply atmospheric, Torcello is where the story of Venice began.
Long before the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square, this quiet island was a thriving center of life and faith — the cradle of the lagoon civilization that would become La Serenissima.
🕰️ A Glimpse into History
Settled as early as the 5th century, Torcello became a refuge for people escaping invasions on the mainland.
By the 10th century, it had over 20,000 inhabitants, complete with churches, palaces, and workshops.
As Venice grew, Torcello slowly declined, leaving behind a landscape of calm canals and timeless ruins.
🏛️ What to See
Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (639 AD) — the oldest church in the Venetian Lagoon, featuring stunning Byzantine mosaics that narrate the Last Judgment.
Church of Santa Fosca — a rare example of early Venetian-Byzantine architecture, with elegant columns and a central dome.
The Throne of Attila — a stone seat surrounded by mystery, traditionally linked to ancient rulers of the lagoon.
Torcello Museum — preserves centuries of art and artifacts from the island’s early past.
🌾 The Spirit of the Island
Torcello’s beauty lies in its silence.
A short walk from the pier leads along a canal bordered by reeds, bridges, and fields — the perfect contrast to the bustle of central Venice.
Here you can still feel the rhythm of the lagoon and imagine what Venice once was: a peaceful refuge rising from the waters.
🚤 How to Get There
Take vaporetto line 12 from Fondamente Nove (Venice) to Burano, then continue one stop to Torcello.
The walk from the pier to the cathedral takes about 10 minutes and offers beautiful views of the lagoon.
☀️ Tips for Visitors
Bring comfortable shoes and plan your visit in the morning or late afternoon, when the island is at its quietest.
Allow time to explore slowly — Torcello is best enjoyed as a journey through Venice’s oldest memories.
You can also visit nearby islands like: