Cargo quarantine warehouse on Lazzaretto Nuovo

Research Trip to Venice – Jesica Pavert (2023 MSc Archaeology).

In June 2024, I travelled to Venice, Italy, to conduct research in support of my thesis on the historical and archaeological impact of the Black Plague in Venice. This research trip was crucial for gaining first-hand insights into various sites and artifacts related to the plague’s history in Venice.

My primary objective was to investigate the historical and archaeological evidence of the Black Plague in Venice through site visits, local history tours, and museum explorations. Upon arriving in Venice late in the evening, I checked into my hotel in Maghera and planned the subsequent days’ activities.

The first part of my research involved visiting Lazaretto Nuovo. This tour provided a comprehensive history of the island, including viewing graffiti by 15th-16th century Lombardi workers in the quarantine warehouses. My guide, Rene, offered detailed insights into the plague’s history in Venice, prompting me to book another tour with him to delve deeper into the subject. Later, I visited the Church of Santa Maria Della Salute, notable for its plague columns.

The next segment of my trip involved a history tour led by Rene, focusing on the old hospital and the plague’s impact on Venice. I then visited Piazza San Marco, where many plague victims are buried, and explored the Museums Corror located in the piazza. This provided a deeper understanding of the city’s historical landscape during the plague era.

Graffiti of merchant seals in warehouse made by Lombardi workers

Subsequent days were spent exploring Venice’s rich historical sites and museums. At the Naval Museum, I learned about Venice’s maritime history, followed by visits to Campo San Polo and the Church of San Simeone, which was raised to accommodate plague burials. I also visited the Scuola Grade Di San Rocco, housing the Hospital Museum of Venice, and the Redentore Church, built as a prayer against the plague. My exploration extended to Campo San Anzolo, raised to accommodate the burial of plague victims.

This research trip was highly successful, providing comprehensive insights into the impact of the Black Plague on Venice. The archaeological evidence and historical knowledge gained will significantly contribute to my thesis. I am grateful for the support of the Old Members’ Trust Graduate Conference and Academic Travel Fund that made this enriching experience possible.

Find out more about the range of travel grants and scholarships available to assist Univ students on our Travel Grants page or read further travel reports.

Published: 26 July 2024

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