Venice Revives Floating Bridge for All Souls’ Day Mourners

Venice has reintroduced a temporary floating bridge to San Michele Island, allowing residents to honor their deceased loved ones on the Catholic holiday of All Souls’ Day. This initiative, which spans approximately 400 meters (a quarter-mile), enables mourners to cross the lagoon to the island, the final resting place for notable figures such as American poet Ezra Pound and Russian composer Igor Stravinsky.

The bridge, traditionally constructed from Venetian “peata” boats lashed together with walking planks, was first established decades ago but fell out of use in the 1950s. This decline occurred as public water buses provided easier access to the island. After a hiatus of nearly seventy years, the bridge was revived in 2019 using a modular pontoon design. Plans to make it a yearly fixture were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but this year, it has returned in full swing.

Mayor Luigi Brugnaro emphasized the significance of this revival, stating, “We have proposed it once more so we can reconnect history with living people. It’s a concrete journey. It’s not fake, not philosophical.” He highlighted the beauty of traversing the water by foot, which he believes offers a deeper understanding of Venice.

Bridge Design and Accessibility

The floating walkway, the longest of its kind in Venice, connects to the island from the Fondamente Nove and arcs upward, allowing passage for water taxis, buses, and emergency services. Its modern construction is designed to withstand high tides of up to 1 meter (over 3 feet), ensuring safety and accessibility for all users.

On October 26, 2023, the bridge opened exclusively for local residents ahead of All Souls’ Day, which falls on November 2. It will welcome tourists the following day, allowing for broader access to the significant cultural event.

Visitors have expressed appreciation for this unique opportunity. Local resident Antonio Vespignani remarked, “I usually don’t go to the cemetery for various reasons, but I’m taking advantage of this very rare circumstance. It’s a way for me to visit my loved ones.” Meanwhile, tourist Zhang Miao discovered the bridge while visiting the island by ferry, noting its convenience and the absence of a fee.

Historical Context of San Michele Island

San Michele Island has served as Venice’s principal burial ground since its establishment in 1807, following a decree by Napoleon to relocate burials away from the city. The island, named after its 15th-century church, has seen expansions over the years, including the filling of a canal from a neighboring island.

Despite a declining population in the historic center, San Michele remains a vital site for commemorating the deceased. As the city continues to evolve, the revival of the floating bridge represents a poignant connection between Venice’s past and its present, allowing residents and visitors alike to reflect on their history and the memories of those who have passed.

The initiative not only facilitates access but also reinforces the importance of remembering loved ones, showcasing Venice’s rich traditions and the community’s resilience in preserving them.