San Michelle is a small cemetery island north of Venice. The cemetery occupies two islands that are joined along the canal, and features two churches. The San Michelle Church is an impressive Renaissance structure which can be visited for only one euro. Some important and illustrious people are buried at the cemetery island, and you can pay respects to poets like Igor Stravinsky and Ezra Pound, and Sergei Diaghilev, the founder of the Ballet Russes.As you make your way through the island, you’ll see various tombstones, imaginative statues, columbarium and a few family chapels.Due to the limited space, the deceased rest in their tombs for only 10n years or so before being transferred into the ossuary, so don’t be astonished if you stumble upon some “grave digging”.
You can easily stop by San Michelle for a quick visit on your way to Murano. Up to an hour is more than enough time to appreciate the first Renaissance structure in Venice and enjoy some time in peace. Also, take the map available in the cloisters, avoid taking photos and keep your voices low. The mourners will appreciate it.
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