Torcello island
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Torcello - by Marialaura Gionfriddo on Unsplash
Description
Torcello is an island at the eastern end of the Venetian Lagoon, close to the Veneto "mainland". Historically, it was one of the first islands in the lagoon to be settled, as early as the 5th century. For many centuries, it was a much larger trading center than Venice, but its economy was severely impacted by the various waves of plague in the 14-16th centuries and by the increasing swamp areas which made navigation difficult so that traders stopped calling at the island. The full-time population is now only... 10-15 persons (Vs several thousand during the Middle Ages). The highlights of Torcello include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (founded in the 7th century) with its mosaics, the provincial museum (Museo Provinciale di Torcello) housed in two 14th-century palaces, and the small Devil's Bridge.
Access & Transport
The island is 8km from the city, about 1km from Burano (and 5km from the Marco Polo international airport as the crow flies) The main departure point is Fondamente Nove in Cannaregiom using line 12 (or N, at night). Line 9 also connects Burano to Torcello and line 12 to Murano (from there it is possible to link up to Puna Sabbioni, on the West Coast of Cavallino-Treporti, with line #14)
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining a visit to Torcello island with either Burano Island (#9, 12, N) or the Murano islands (#12, N to/from "Faro" stop)
Environmental & Social
Mostly low carbon footprint besides the crossing by vaporetto. Only feels commercial during Venice's peak tourist season
Conclusion
Torcello is worth a quick exploration for its history and main church but, considering the time investment, we would only recommend it when combined with either Burano or Murano.
Key positive
Impressive Cathedral architecture
Key negative
A bit time consuming to get there
Only one major sight
Suitability
Wheelchair users will need assistance to cross the various small bridges
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 10m
est. visit time:2h 30m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo