Boat tour to Torcello
Island of Torcello Tour
Boat tour to Torcello
Fascinating, unique, and steeped in history, thanks to our Venetian Islands boat tour, we have reached one of the first settlements in the lagoon: the beautiful island of Torcello!
Torcello was one of the first inhabited areas in the lagoon. During the Roman Empire, it was already home to a modest population engaged in hunting and fishing. Later, it became a refuge for mainland populations, especially those from Altino, fleeing barbarian invasions.
In 639, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta was first built, dedicated to Theotokos. This reflects the anti-Lombard and anti-Arian sentiment of its Byzantine-aligned population.
By the 10th and 11th centuries, Torcello had become a vibrant and prosperous urban center, extending its jurisdiction to Malamocco and much of the lagoon, except for the southern parts between Malamocco and Chioggia.
Its peak was marked by the reconstruction of the Cathedral in 1008, which gave it its current form, and the construction of the majestic Bell Tower.
From the 15th century, however, Torcello began to decline as Venice grew in prominence and environmental conditions caused the land to swamp over. Nearly abandoned, the island became desolate for years.
Few buildings have survived, but the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, the bell tower, and some artifacts still attract visitors.
Intriguing legends surround Torcello. One involves the Devil’s Bridge. According to the tale, a girl made a pact with the Devil to bring back her deceased lover. The Devil demanded seven souls in exchange. At the appointed meeting on the bridge, the girl fled with her lover without fulfilling the agreement. It is said the Devil still waits there for the souls he is owed.
Another legend concerns Attila’s Throne, whose name is misleading. There is no evidence of the Hunnic leader’s presence on the island. Given that lagoon territories served as refuges from barbarian invasions, it is unlikely the Huns, who were neither seafarers nor possessed boats, ever reached these islands. The name likely originates from irony; the throne was used by tribunes and bishops for administrative duties such as collecting taxes and offerings.