March 6th, 2016
Burano and Murano are two, separate series of islands connected by bridges. They are found in the Northern end of the Venetian Lagoon. Murano is famous for its glass-making and Burano for its lace and colorful houses. These two islands are a treat for the eyes! We used most of our second day in Venice exploring these northern gems.
To reach the islands, we took a Vaporetto (a water bus) from our neighborhood “bus” stop. We waited on the dock until the right boat pulled up. The boats go in different directions so you need to be attentive to the direction and route you want to take. What a unique and fun way to travel…especially for two, young boys!
Our first stop was the island of Murano, famous for its glass making. Due to the risk of fires, all the glass makers in Venice were moved to Murano in 1291 and have prospered there ever since. We went to a free, glass making demonstration at one of the studios shortly after we reached the island. We learned how glass makers start off as apprentices for about ten years to learn the trade. If at that point, they show talent, they are selected to continue to refine their skills, work and eventually become a master glass maker. The host spoke in multiple languages. The presentation was both informative and entertaining. We watched glass jars and animals form before our eyes!
To demonstrate how hot the glass still is after its been sculpted, the host held a piece of paper against a newly sculpted horse. The paper immediately went up in flames!
Afterwards, we walked around the island.
We spotted a statue of a lion holding an open book on a pillar near a bridge. This became a game for us over the weekend. The lion represents St. Mark and the open book is indicative of a time of peace. We also found lions with closed books which signaled a time of war. The boys became very adept at finding and interpreting these sculptures. We also kept our eyes out for other works of art too.
We eventually found our way to another water bus dock and caught a Vaporetto to Burano. We bundled up as we stood on the deck to take it all in. There were heated cabin areas to ride in but the views weren’t the same!
How I love getting to travel with Mein Mann!
Burano is perhaps the most colorful place we have been to thus far! According to legend, its homes were painted in bright colors for the resident fishermen to find their houses in foggy conditions after a long voyage at sea. Fishing is Burano’s traditional industry. It’s also known for its lace that dates back to the 16th Century when the women of the island began making lace with needles. This handmade process is time-consuming and thus VERY expensive.
Walking around Burano was a like being in a Crayola Crayon box of 64 colors! What a visual treat! The boys and I stood against the blue house (below) for a picture. Seconds later, the gentleman who lived there walked up, smiled at us and walked in. hee-hee =)
Colors, colors EVERYWHERE!
After strolling through the neighborhoods, we asked a shopkeeper if she could recommend a good place for us to have lunch. She told us where all the locals go. We were thankful to get a table!
We headed back to the main island of Venice as the sun was setting in the sky…beautiful!
We walked the lively streets back to our apartment, stopping for a couple of fun souvenirs for the boys.
Since we made a purchase, I asked if I could take pictures in the mask store and the shop owner happily agreed. The walls were covered!
On Monday morning, we packed up and took our last Vaporetto ride to catch our bus (one that drives on roads) to the airport.
Our trip was short but memorable!
Ciao Italy! We hope to see you again soon!
