The main objective of the project is to restore and revitalize the island of Lazzaretto Novo, which was abandoned by the military in 1975. In the Middle Ages, it was used to house sailors returning from the Mediterranean, who were suspected of carrying diseases.

Restoration work is being undertaken with a view to enhancing the cultural (archaeological, architectural, etc.) and environmental value of the site, in line with an eco-museum perspective.

The "Lazzaretti veneziani" project is based on the island of Lazzaretto Nuovo in Venice's northern lagoon.

Today, the island is an eco-museum dedicated to the territory and its community: its management and projects are the fruit of the commitment and knowledge of hundreds of enthusiasts and volunteers, in collaboration with institutions and dozens of local, national and international organizations.

Theoretical part - General topics

Materials and construction features of historic Venetian buildings. Istrian stone and the main lithotypes used in Venice. Bricks: differences and variations over the centuries (mensiochronology).

Architectural analysis and guided observation of materials. Study of degradation and considerations for the conservation and restoration of wall structures. Damage caused by humidity, biological attack and vegetation.

Historical notes on the island of Lazzaretto Nuovo. The 16th-century ramparts, the military transformations of the 19th-20th centuries and the outer bastions. The maritime military archaeological park of the military fortifications of the Venetian lagoon.

Practical information

Maintenance work on the city walls, historic buildings and green spaces, including rational weeding. Demonstrations and hands-on experience, with expert guidance and demonstrations, on equipment and different treatment and intervention systems, for conservation and restoration purposes. Collection and inventory of recovered materials.

Expenses include accommodation, meals, activities, teaching tools and materials, some visits and excursions. Transportation is not included.

Accommodation is in multi-bedded rooms on the island of Lazzaretto. A certificate of participation will be issued at the end of the work camp.

The island of Lazzaretto Nuovo, near S.Erasmo in the north of the lagoon, can be reached from Venice / Fondamente Nuove in around 20 minutes by vaporetto, with a stop "on request" on the ACTV 13 line.

Guided tours of the museums and collections of Venice and the lagoon. Excursions to the lagoon and Venice by traditional boat.

No specific skills are required to take part.

In the days following your pre-registration, the International Relations Department will contact you by e-mail to arrange a telephone conversation.

This will enable us to get to know you better and give you more details about the workcamp (organization, arrival arrangements, etc.).

You can ask us any questions you may have, and let us know what you need to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

You will then receive a roadmap summarizing all useful information about the site.

• Access by train: Venice - Santa Lucia station.

Meet at Venice Santa Lucia station on Saturday May 17 at 5pm. The association will be there to meet you by boat and take you to the accommodation site.