The Island of Murano is not really part of the city of Venice however it is part of the Venetian lagoon and a very famous tourist destination. Well renowned for its glass blowers and craftsman the island of Murano actually started out as a fishing port and was first settled by the Romans.
A trip to Venice would not be complete if one did not stop at Murano to see the creation of unbelievable works of art formed before your very eyes. The feel of the heat furnaces and smell of the glass will stay with you for a long time as you admire other works created by these unique and hard working artisans. Murano separated itself for years by minting its own coins and this is really part of the reason I do not consider it actually part of the city. When you create your own currency then you are a separate soverign nation in my eyes.
It was not until 1291 when the city of Venice feared the glass makers would burn down the city, which at that time was made mostly of wood, forced the glass makers to leave the city and settle in Murano. It was here on Murano that Aventurine or Goldstone glass was being made. Since for a time in history this was the primary place to obtain glass for the whole of Europe you can probably tell that there are many historical buildings and places to see in Murano. It was not until the 15th century that this island became a resort destination for many of the residents in Venice and surrounding areas. Because of the rise of the popularity of this island many palaces were created.
The attractions to see on this island include:
• Church of Santa Maria e San Donato
• Church of San Pietro Martire
• Palazzo da Mula
• Palazzo Giustinian (contains the glass museum)
Plus many free glass blowing seminars that the island uses to attract as many tourists as possible in order for them to sell their goods to you. It is not uncommon for someone to be waiting around at least one of the days in St. Mark’s square to offer you a free ride to Murano. My question always is sure it is free to go to Murano but how much does it cost to leave. All in all this is definitely a place you want to check out if you are interested in history or art or just curious.
Michael | 18-Sep-07 at 6:04 pm | Permalink
Hi Rob,
I once worked in glass blowing, and one of the highest realms in the land for glass blowing was always Murano Italy. Murano is where the top glass would come from and where some of the highest skilled glass blowers are in the world.
Glass is such an interesting medium in itself, but to see real masters at work is a real treat!
Cheers,
Michael
Marco Italy | 12-Oct-07 at 12:21 am | Permalink
I definitely always try to take my tours to Murano. This is the largest of the islands on the venetian lagoon, located approximately one kilometer from the city of Venice. Murano has been, from the 13th century, a famous glass making center. In the 15th century it was the seat of the famous Vivarini painting school. It’s somewhat like a miniature version of Venice: like her big sister, it is made up of little islands connected by bridges, it too has a sinuous Grand Canal bordered with quays running through it, and old homes lined up along them.