The island was a port attached to Murano in the 8th century, but is now known for market gardening.

Ruined fortifications, including the so-called Torre Massimiliana (Tower of Maximilian), ring the isle.

After Napoleon's defeat, the Austrian Archduke Maximilian of Austria-Este had a tower built here in 1843–1844, and also found here refuge during a revolt.

The beach on the island's Southernmost point, the Spiaggia del Bacan, is a popular summer destination with local Venetians.

The island is accessed on Actv waterbus line 13 (Fondamente Nove-Murano-Vignole-Lazzaretto Nuovo-Sant'Erasmo-Treporti) and is also served by a night service.