Cattellin

Cattellin is a small, uninhabited island located in the Gulf of Trieste, part of the Adriatic Sea. Situated near the Italian border, it lies approximately 1.5 kilometers off the coast of Trieste, Italy, and is administered by the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. The island is part of the Miramare Archipelago, which also includes the nearby islands of San Bartolomeo and San Servolo.

Cattellin is notable for its historical significance and natural beauty. Originally a Venetian possession, it was later ceded to Austria-Hungary following the Congress of Vienna in 1815. During the 19th century, the island served as a quarantine station for ships arriving in Trieste, a major port at the time. The ruins of a former quarantine hospital, built in the early 1800s, remain on the island, reflecting its past role in maritime health regulations.

Today, Cattellin is primarily a protected natural area, attracting visitors interested in its untouched landscapes and historical remnants. The island is covered in dense Mediterranean vegetation, including pine trees, shrubs, and wildflowers, providing a habitat for various bird species. Its proximity to Trieste makes it an accessible destination for short boat trips, often combined with visits to nearby San Bartolomeo or the Miramare Castle.

Access to Cattellin is restricted, and visitors must obtain permission from local authorities. The island’s isolation and lack of permanent infrastructure contribute to its preservation as a serene, unspoiled environment. While not open to tourism in the traditional sense, its historical and ecological value continues to draw interest from historians, naturalists, and nature enthusiasts.