The Island of Murano

Submitted by Riccardo Calderara on Wed, 2011-06-01 14:06

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Famous for its hand-made glass production, Murano is one of the most beautiful islands of the Venetian lagoon; an ideal destination for ferry tour.

Composed of seven small islands all connected to each other by small bridges, Murano is located 1km north-east of Venice. The island was historically a fishing community and also was also home to wind-mills; however Murano’s destiny was to change 1291 when the Venetian Noble Family ordered the production of glass furnaces on the island, to obviate the danger of fire, therefore initiating glass craftsmanship in Murano.

The obligation was given to glass makers, who, over the years have passed down the knowledge and secrets generation to generation, of a skill acknowledged all over the world. Glass is the trademark of Murano and visitors are strongly advised to stop at the Glass Museum (Museo di Vetro) situated in Palazzo Giustinian, with extraordinary displays of hand-crafted glass and unique pieces; it is also possible to purchase original products.

The small city is dotted with glass shops and laboratories, however the two main churches of the island are well worth a visit; the Church Santa Maria Donato, erected in 999, is rich in precious frescoes and is characterised by its interior original mosaic flooring and exterior apse in Venetian-Byzantine style; the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, originally dates back to the 12th century and was rebuilt in the 16th century, and home to the important piece of work by Jacopo Palma il Giovane, the Madonna in Gloria e Santi.

Before reaching Murano it is a good idea to take a short tour San Michele in Isola, which is visible from the ferry during the trip. At the cemetery near the church of San Michele, the great poets Ezra Pound and Josif Brodskij are buried, as well as the Russian composer Igor Stravinskij.

Among the many marvellous islands scattered around Venice, Murano and Burano stand out boasting beauty and particular features. Both islands can be visited on the same day without wearing yourself out; to organise a tour of the islands, read of the Burano Island Guide.

How to get to Murano: Hydrofoils ACTV 41, 42, N, depart from Piazzale Roma, at the Murano Faro, Murano Museo stops. Glass Museum timetable: April-October: 10-17, November-March: 10-16, Wednesday closed. Burano is accessible from Murano by ferry.