Convento di San Francesco del Deserto

Convento di San Francesco del Deserto stands on its own small island in the Venetian Lagoon, reached only by private boat. Water and greenery surround the monastery, while cypress and pine trees frame views across the lagoon toward Burano’s colourful houses. The island has no other building, giving you a clear sense of distance from Venice’s busy streets.

Founded in the thirteenth century, the Franciscan community still lives here and shapes daily life around prayer and contemplation. Two cloisters include original thirteenth-century elements, and friars quietly guide visitors through the covered walkways and central courtyards. A chapel marks the place where Saint Francis is said to have prayed after returning from the Holy Land, according to tradition.

The gardens, cloisters and chapel create a setting for silence, meditation and conversation with the friars. If you stay here, a simple room may contain only a bed, desk, small wardrobe, sink and prayer kneeler.