When most travelers think of Venice, they imagine gondolas gliding through canals, St. Mark’s Basilica shimmering in the sun, or perhaps Murano’s glowing glass furnaces. But hidden away on the quiet island of Sant’Erasmo, far from the crowds of Piazza San Marco, there’s a fortress with a fascinating history: the Torre Massimiliana.
It’s not just a military relic—it’s a place where history, nature, and community come together in one of the lagoon’s most peaceful corners.
Where is Torre Massimiliana?
The Torre Massimiliana sits on Sant’Erasmo, often called “the vegetable garden of Venice” because it supplies the city with its artichokes, asparagus, and other fresh produce. Unlike Murano or Burano, Sant’Erasmo is quiet, rural, and largely untouched by mass tourism.
At the edge of the island, close to the waters of the northern lagoon, the Torre rises with its circular walls, guarding the entrance like a silent sentinel.
The Origins of the Torre
The Torre was built in the mid-19th century during the time of Austrian rule over Venice. Its name comes from Emperor Ferdinand Maximilian of Austria, who ordered the construction of several coastal fortifications around the Adriatic to protect strategic points.
Unlike the Renaissance arsenals or medieval Venetian defenses, this fortress was designed with modern warfare in mind. Its thick, rounded walls were built to withstand cannon fire, and its shape allowed for better visibility and defense.
Essentially, it was Venice’s way of adapting to a changing world where empires and artillery were reshaping Europe.
Military Past and Forgotten Years
For decades, Torre Massimiliana served as a fortress and lookout post, part of a larger system of lagoon defenses. Its strategic role was simple: to control access to the lagoon’s northern entrance and prevent naval attacks.
But as warfare evolved, the Torre lost its military importance. By the early 20th century, it was mostly abandoned, falling into disrepair. Locals passed by its crumbling walls on their way to tend vineyards and gardens, and for many years, the fortress was seen as little more than a ruined curiosity.
Restoration and a New Life
In the late 20th century, efforts began to restore the Torre. Today, it has been revived as a cultural and community space. Instead of soldiers, it now hosts exhibitions, concerts, and events. Its wide interior courtyard—once designed for cannons and supplies—now becomes a stage for summer festivals and gatherings.
The Torre is also a symbol of Sant’Erasmo’s identity: a reminder that the island is not just farmland, but also part of Venice’s complex history of defense and survival.
Why Visit Torre Massimiliana?
For travelers seeking something off the beaten path, the Torre is a hidden gem. Here’s why it’s worth the detour:
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History without the crowds: You’ll get a glimpse of Venice’s military past in total tranquility.
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Scenic views: The fortress is surrounded by open lagoon waters and countryside—perfect for photography.
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Local flavor: Pair your visit with a glass of local wine or the famous Sant’Erasmo purple artichokes in season.
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Events: In summer, check the local calendar for concerts, art shows, or open-air theater inside the Torre.
How to Get There
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From Venice, take the vaporetto (waterbus) Line 13 from Fondamente Nove. The ride itself is an adventure, passing by Murano and Vignole before reaching Sant’Erasmo.
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Once on the island, the Torre is about a 20-minute walk or a short bike ride from the vaporetto stop.
Torre Massimiliana Today
Standing inside its round stone walls, you’ll feel the silence of history, broken only by the sound of birds and the rustling lagoon breeze. Few visitors ever make it here, but those who do discover a side of Venice most tourists never imagine: a rural island, a 19th-century fortress, and a community that still treasures both.
For anyone interested in military history, hidden Venice, or simply escaping the tourist crowds, Torre Massimiliana is one of the lagoon’s most authentic surprises.
✅ Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a day exploring Sant’Erasmo by bike—stop at local farms, enjoy the beach at Bacàn (yes, there’s a little sandy stretch here!), and end your trip with a visit to the Torre at sunset.
