San Francesco del Deserto is a small, serene island located in the Venetian Lagoon in Italy, between Sant'Erasmo and Burano. As its name suggests, the island is home to the ancient monastery of San Francesco, which has been a place of quiet contemplation and religious devotion for centuries. The island gained its name, "Desert of Saint Francis", from Saint Francis of Assisi, who allegedly stopped there in 1220. According to legend, Saint Francis planted a pine tree on the island and performed a miracle, making birds sing to interrupt his conversation with a sailor who doubted his teachings. The island has a rich and complex history, as it was initially inhabited during the Roman era, abandoned after Barbarian Invasions, and later turned into a Benedictine monastery in the 11th century. However, the Benedictines left the island in the 13th century, and the island lay deserted for about a century, hence the term "desert". In 1230, Franciscan friars arrived and built a church and monastery, which was consecrated by the Bishop of Castello in 1233. Over the centuries, the monastery was subjected to various renovations, but it still retains its original Gothic architectural style. The exterior of the monastery appears simple, yet majestic, with its red brick walls and humble bell tower. It's surrounded by lush gardens, vineyards and orchards, creating an atmosphere of tranquillity. The interior is equally impressive, with frescoed walls, wooden choir stalls, and a beautifully preserved cloister. The main altar is adorned with impressive works of art, including a painting of the "Madonna and Child with Saints" made by Jacopo Palma the Younger. The island is also home to a notable 14th-century cloister, a beautiful well, and a small chapel known as the "Chapel of the Stigmata", which is dedicated to Saint Francis. Inside the chapel, a stone slab marks the spot where Saint Francis supposedly prayed. Today, San Francesco del Deserto is still inhabited by a small community of friars who welcome visitors for spiritual retreats and guided tours. This peaceful island, with its deep historical and religious roots, stands as a quiet testament to the enduring spiritual legacy of Saint Francis of Assisi.