Grado Lagoon and the island of Barbana

An area rich in history in which archaeological finds reveal the ancient Roman road, now completely covered by water, that connected Aquileia to Grado. And the presence of the casoni, characteristic housing with straw roofs, takes us back to the time they were inhabited by fishermen.

The lagoon is an area fertile in trees, in particular, tamarisk, elm, poplar, junipers and pines, whilst the fauna presents a considerable variety of birds such as gulls, grey herons, wild ducks, sea swallows.

If you are passionate about bird watching, if you love nature or you want to satisfy your curiosity, you can observe the beauty of the flora and fauna of the lagoon in the enchanting protected areas of the River Isonzo Mouth Reserve and the Valle Cavanata Reserve.
 

The Barbana Island is situated at the eastern tip of the lagoon of Grado and features an ancient Marian sanctuary. A primitive sepulchre was built on the island in the 6th century which, according to tradition, had to preserve a holy image of the Virgin transported in that place by the sea after a storm and which was erected, by order of the Patriarch of Grado Elia (571-588), to thank the Virgin for saving the town of Grado. Its name probably derives from Barbano, a sixth-century hermit who had settled on it gathering around himself a community of monks.
The Sanctuary, in its current form, dates back to the 1926 renovation. Its high bell tower can be seen from far away, thus being a point of reference of the lagoon of Grado.
This picturesque island, an oasis of peace and of ancient traditions, has always been a pilgrimage destination.
A regular boat service, leaving from the Schiusa Canal, links the Barbana Island to Grado. The trip lasts about 20 minutes. The island can also be reached by private boats and is provided with a small port.

Since 1237, on every first Sunday of July, the community of Grado goes in procession on boats dressed with flags to the Barbana Island, to renew the ancient vow to the Virgin, that saved the town from the terrible plague epidemic. After the Mass the procession returns to Grado with singing, prayers and bell ringing.

For Information
Sanctuary Beata Vergine Maria