lazaretti

Lazaretti, also known as lazaretto or lazaret, were quarantine stations established for ships and people suspected of carrying contagious diseases, most notably the plague. These isolation facilities were a critical public health measure during various epidemics throughout history, particularly from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The name derives from Saint Lazarus, the patron saint of lepers, as early isolation practices often encompassed various infectious diseases.

Typically located on islands or in isolated coastal areas to prevent the spread of disease to the mainland population, lazaretti served as holding areas where individuals and their belongings underwent a period of observation and disinfection. This period, known as quarantine, could last for weeks or even months, depending on the perceived threat of the disease. Ships arriving from infected ports would anchor offshore, and passengers and crew would be transferred to the lazaretto. Cargo was often aired out or fumigated.

The conditions within lazaretti varied greatly, from basic temporary structures to more permanent buildings. While intended to protect the public, they were often harsh environments for those quarantined, with limited resources and high mortality rates. Despite their grim nature, lazaretti played a significant role in controlling the spread of devastating epidemics, acting as a precursor to modern quarantine and public health protocols. As medical understanding advanced, the concept evolved, and dedicated quarantine stations gradually became less common, replaced by more sophisticated public health systems.