San Giacomo in Paludo: the timeless transformation of a venetian island

San Giacomo in Paludo is a small island located on the way to Burano, just beyond Murano, nestled in one of the most unique and enchanting places in the world: the Venetian Lagoon.

This is a setting that the ancient Venetians masterfully preserved over centuries, harnessing the power of water to protect the Serenissima.

In its past, San Giacomo was initially home to monasteries, later repurposed as a quarantine station during the plague. It then served as agricultural land and, eventually, as an Austrian military fort. By the late 19th century, however, the island had fallen into complete disrepair.

Today, thanks to the vision of its new owners, the island is ready for a remarkable rebirth. It will be transformed into a cultural hub where art takes center stage, and its fragile shores are safeguarded against erosion.

Our role in the island’s revival

We are proud to play a vital role in this ambitious project. Entrusted with the design and construction of all the supporting structures in heavy-duty, hot-dip galvanized steel, we are handling over 300,000 kg of steel.

The existing brick warehouses, whose generous dimensions are still evident in at least three surviving structures, will retain their original exterior walls. Inside, they will be repurposed to host art exhibitions and events on the ground floor, while the upper floors will offer visitors a breathtaking panoramic view.

From this viewpoint, the island will provide a one-of-a-kind experience:

To one side, the colorful charm of Burano; on the other, the coastal landscapes stretching toward the sea. Turning slightly, the iconic silhouette of Venice emerges behind Murano. On clear days, the Venetian Alps will provide a majestic backdrop, completing a truly unforgettable scene.

The challenges and achievements

This project is as complex as it is rewarding. We’ve created detailed 3D executive drawings, meticulously planned every element, and independently constructed and assembled all components in our workshop.

Additionally, we tackled the island’s unique logistical challenges by organizing transport via water and managing the lifting and installation of all elements on-site.

A future worth waiting for

We’ll keep you updated as the island becomes accessible by public transport and the first artworks are installed. San Giacomo in Paludo is on the verge of becoming a vibrant cultural landmark—a space where history, art, and nature converge in perfect harmony.