San Paolo Island, Private island in Lake Iseo, Italy
San Paolo Island is a private island in Lake Iseo with dense vegetation and rocky shores spread across about 8 hectares. A Renaissance-style villa designed by architect Egidio Dabbeni stands on the property.
The island's first documented settlement dates to 1091 when the Mozzi brothers donated land to the monastery of Cluny, establishing a religious foundation there. By the 15th century, the monastery had grown into a significant religious center in the region.
The island once housed a Franciscan monastery that was central to the spiritual life of the region until religious orders were suppressed in 1783. The remains and layout of the former cloister still shape how visitors understand the island's religious past.
Access to this private island requires permission in advance, as the Beretta family has owned it since 1916 and it remains restricted. Visitors cannot simply arrive and expect to explore without prior arrangement.
In 2016, the island temporarily connected to Monte Isola through The Floating Piers, an art installation featuring walkable polythene cubes floating on the lake. This temporary project gave many visitors a rare chance to experience the water around the island.
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