This podcast explores the haunted island of Poveglia. It covers the island's historical background, including its role as a Lazareto and mental hospital. The episode also discusses the current condition of Poveglia and the efforts to preserve its history. Additionally, it delves into the haunting legends associated with the island.
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Quick takeaways
Poveglia Island has a rich history dating back to the 5th century, serving as a haven, quarantine location, hospital, and more.
Efforts are being made to preserve Poveglia Island's historical identity and prevent it from becoming a luxury tourist destination.
Deep dives
The History of Poveglia Island
Poveglia Island, located in the Venice lagoon, has a long history dating back to the 5th century when it served as a haven for people fleeing invaders. Over the centuries, it was inhabited, developed a small economy based on fishing, and a church was erected on the island. It later became a Lazaretto, a quarantine location for travelers, and a fortress for protection. In the 20th century, it housed a hospital and later a facility for the elderly homeless. Today, the island is uninhabited, with efforts being made to preserve its historical identity.
Legends and Hauntings of Poveglia Island
Poveglia Island has gained a reputation for being haunted. According to various legends, the spirits of plague victims, including plague doctors, are said to roam the island. There are also stories of a cruel doctor at the mental hospital who conducted experiments on patients before reportedly killing himself. However, these haunting stories are largely based on sensationalized claims and may lack historical evidence.
Attempts to Preserve and Develop Poveglia Island
Efforts have been made to preserve Poveglia Island and prevent it from turning into a luxury tourist destination. In 2014, an auction took place to lease the island, but the winning bid was eventually rejected due to incongruity with the island's restoration needs. Local activists have proposed making two-thirds of the island public recreational space and retaining its historical identity. Despite its haunting reputation, there is a growing movement to focus on the island's historical significance instead.
The Mundane Reality of Poveglia Island
While rumors of haunting and supernatural activity surround Poveglia Island, the reality is likely more mundane. The degradation of the island's buildings, crumbling roofs, and absence of inhabitants contribute to the eerie atmosphere. Modern photos show active fishing nets around the island, dispelling claims that local fishers avoid it due to fear. Poveglia Island remains a subject of fascination in popular culture, with references in graphic novels, TV shows, and artworks, which further contribute to its mystical allure.
This 2018 episode covers an uninhabited Italian island that has come to be called all manner of scary things, including, "plague island," "island of ghosts," and "the Venetian island of no return."