Torcello developed most rapidly between the 7th and 10th centuries, during which time its population grew to 20,000. The island's growth was driven by a thriving trade maintained by the numerous salt marshes in and around the lagoon and the many traders and merchants passing through the area. It was, in fact, one of the Byzantine Empire's most important markets in Western Europe.Through the centuries, however, Torcello slowly but surely lost its importance as all the major commercial activities became concentrated in nearby Venice. Although the island was at one time dominated by splendid buildings, churches and monasteries, today just a handful of monuments survive.

One of these is the famous Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral (built in 639) with its Byzantine-Roman mosaics dating from the 11th and 12th centuries and its imposing 11th century bell tower, visible from all over the lagoon. Another important monument is the Santa Fosca Church (also dating back to the 11th century), which is surrounded by a five-sided portico built in the form of a Greek cross.

Opposite the churches you will find the 14th century Palazzo dell’Archivio and the Palazzo del Consiglio, formerly the seat of local government appointed by the doge but now a small yet important museum.
In the middle of the grassy area in front of the churches stands Attila’s Throne, which may have been used at one time by the island tribunes when handing down judgements.