Venice Island Transformed into Sustainable Art Hub

San Giacomo in Paludo, a historic Venetian island, has been revitalized into a significant contemporary art complex by collector Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo. The 130,000-square-foot island, located a 20-minute boat ride from Venice's center, was purchased in 2018 and lay derelict for decades after military use.

Reopened on May 7, 2026, during the Venice Biennale preview, the complex features solo and group exhibitions, including works from the foundation's collection. The project emphasizes sustainability, using 30,000 reclaimed bricks and generating all energy from on-site renewable resources.

A dozen buildings now house exhibition spaces, performance areas, and residential quarters. The island also boasts a vegetable garden and vineyard, with a reactivated well providing fresh water.

In response to concerns about private collections dominating the art scene, San Giacomo will offer free public access for four to five months annually. It also dedicates rooms for artist and curator residencies, aiming to support contemporary artistic practice and promote Italian art. The island's infrastructure has been raised three feet to mitigate rising sea levels.