A private island in the Venice lagoon, complete with a Napoleonic fort built in 1806, is on the market for $7.5 million. The Island of Crevan, located less than five miles from Venice, offers views of nearby islands like Torcello, Murano, and Burano. The property spans 5,700 square miles and includes the 215-square-mile fortress, which has been transformed into a small villa with adjacent vegetable gardens.
The fort was restored in 1996 and now contains four main rooms and two bathrooms. Historically, Crevan was part of the defensive system established to protect the Venetian Lagoon during the Napoleonic era. The military structure was expanded and reinforced under Austrian rule before becoming part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1866. It maintained its military function until after World War I.
Following its military use, the island transitioned to private ownership and was adapted for residential purposes. The current listing also notes the potential for new owners to expand the caretaker's quarters, allowing for a larger, contemporary residence.
The property includes an internal canal and two private boat moorings, with accessibility via both air and water. Dimitri Corti, founder and CEO of Lionard Luxury Real Estate, which is handling the sale, described a private island as a pure expression of ownership, offering space, privacy, and a landscape to preserve, allowing owners to withdraw from the world while remaining connected to Venice's allure.