San Servolo

A historic island dedicated to learning, creation and exchange.

Just ten minutes by boat from Piazza San Marco, San Servolo offers one of Venice's most unique settings. Once home to a Benedictine monastery and later transformed into an island devoted to education and culture, it has become a place where history, nature and creativity coexist.

Surrounded by the Venetian lagoon, its historic architecture, gardens and peaceful atmosphere provide an exceptional environment for photography. Here, participants alternate between the vibrant energy of Venice and the calm of the island, creating an ideal rhythm for shooting, editing, reflecting and sharing ideas throughout four immersive days.

Far more than a venue, San Servolo becomes an essential part of the Venezia Photo experience.

A PLACE APART

Away from the crowds yet deeply connected to Venice, San Servolo offers a rare way of experiencing the city.

Each day of the workshop naturally alternates between two complementary worlds: the intensity of Venice with its ever-changing light, streets and encounters and the tranquillity of the island, where participants return to edit, exchange ideas and reflect on their work.

Workshops unfold between the city, the lagoon and the island itself, creating an immersive rhythm where photography becomes part of everyday life. Shared meals, informal conversations and moments of quiet observation contribute as much to the experience as the shooting sessions themselves.

A Hidden Side of Venice

Few visitors discover San Servolo. Located just across the lagoon from St Mark's Square, the island offers a quieter, more intimate way of experiencing Venice while remaining only minutes from its historic centre.

The Ideal Rhythm

Each workshop alternates naturally between photographing in Venice and returning to the island for editing sessions, portfolio reviews and discussions. This balance between the city's vibrant energy and the serenity of San Servolo creates the perfect environment for developing both technical skills and artistic vision.

A Community of Photographers

With workshops limited to twelve participants, every edition encourages genuine dialogue between photographers, artists and participants. The island becomes a temporary home where ideas, experiences and friendships continue well beyond the workshop itself.