“Isola di S. Ariano”
2018
Media: acrylic on canvas
Size: 100 x 100 cm
In the 600s this island was connected to others (no longer visible) by a series of bridges, and it made up a thriving well populated centre. Due to sinking and erosion, these islands were gradually abandoned. In the 11th century a monastery was build on Saint Ariano. The monastery became very wealthy due to its popularity with Venetian noblewomen who embellished it with lavish bequests and votive offerings. In the 15th century, due to the insalubrious nature of the area, it was once again abandoned. The ossuary, which is still visible today, was built in 1665. In order to keep space for burial in the cemetery of Venice, it became a deposit for old bones and ashes from ancient graves. When the need for this service lessened, the island was abandoned. Currently the inner walls have been completely levelled and the entrance has been blocked over.
