San Damiano Monona

A one-of-a-kind Lake Monona destination built on environmental, historical, cultural, and recreational value.

The property

The property known as San Damiano has been described as epic, iconic, even magical – and it is all of these and more.
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The project

Learn the history of this transformational project, view the community-driven Master Plan, and discover the vision for its future as a cherished public space.
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About us

Learn about the Friends of San Damiano, how to contact us, and see press and media related to San Damiano Monona.
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Our vision—

Conservation, grounded in community value

Friends of San Damiano envisions a vibrant, accessible space where the environmental, historical, cultural, and recreational significance of the San Damiano property is preserved and celebrated for future generations. With the completion of the master plan, we are dedicated to stewarding this land in partnership with the City of Monona and the Dane County community, ensuring its sustainability and enriching its role as a gathering place for education, reflection, and recreation. Together, we will honor the legacy of the past while shaping a dynamic, inclusive future for all.
San Damiano property tree in fall colors
San Damiano lakefront shoreline with rock wall
Updates—

San Damiano's last summer Biergarten of 2024

August 29, 2024
Monona's live music lovers came out for San Damiano's last of three Biergartens of 2024 on Thursday, Aug. 22. They were welcomed to beer served by the event's organizers, the Friends of San Damiano, a line of food trucks and live music provided by Orquesta SalSoul Del Mad. While some set up lawn chairs to enjoy the evening, others took to cutting up the grass dance floor.
See more press and media about San Damiano Monona

We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to turn this iconic site into an environmental, historical, cultural, and recreational gem for all to enjoy.

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