On the market for an unspecified price and located just 20 minutes from Venice, Italy, this private island offers its own lagoon, 1.5 acres of land, lushly manicured gardens, and even a bit of combat history thrown into the mix. According to the brokerbabble, the property once served as a Napoleonic Fort—somewhat similar to other private islands on the market—before officially becoming a part of Italy in 1866. While there's no exact date specified, some years after that a few private buyers swooped in and bought the place—effectively restoring the 1,829-square-foot, four-bedroom fortress and the nearby caretaker's apartment with great care. The brick home is rustic but remarkably well-preserved, and offers panoramic views, a grand, outdoor patio space, and boat mooring facilities. The unlisted ask probably means it isn't exactly a bargain, but history buffs, do take a look:
· Delightful Island Retreat [Sotheby's]
· For sale: 10 idyllic islands to escape to this winter [Telegraph]