Italy in Photos

Calle Bressagio, 30141 Venezia VE, Italy (July 2022)

Murano

Murano, a picturesque island in the Venetian Lagoon, is world-renowned for its exquisite glassmaking, a tradition that has flourished for centuries. Located just a short boat ride from Venice, Murano offers visitors a unique blend of rich history, artisan craftsmanship, and serene beauty, all wrapped up in a distinct, island charm. Murano’s fame is inextricably linked to its glassmaking industry, which dates back to 1291. At that time, the Venetian Republic ordered glassmakers to move their furnaces to Murano due to the fire hazard they posed in Venice. This decision turned the island into a world centre for glassmaking. The artisans of Murano developed techniques that were closely guarded secrets, passed down through generations. They perfected methods such as glassblowing, crystal production, and the creation of intricate millefiori patterns, which remain emblematic of Murano glass today. Visitors can witness these ancient techniques first-hand by touring one of the island’s many glass factories and worksh

Beyond its glass factories, Murano is a treasure trove of historical and architectural gems. The island’s central waterway, the Grand Canal of Murano, is lined with colourful buildings, each reflecting the Venetian Gothic style that characterizes much of the Venetian Lagoon’s architecture. Notable among these is the Church of Santa Maria e San Donato, one of the oldest in the lagoon, known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and for housing the relics of Saint Donatus. Another significant church is the Church of San Pietro Martire, which features beautiful altarpieces by renowned Venetian artists such as Giovanni Bellini. The church’s serene interior provides a quiet contrast to the bustling glass shops and factories, offering a space for contemplation and appreciation of Murano’s spiritual heritage. The Museo del Vetro (Glass Museum) is another must-visit destination on the island. Housed in the historic Palazzo Giustinian, the museum showcases an extensive collection of glass artifacts, ranging from ancient Roman times to contemporary pieces. The exhibits not only highlight the technical evolution of glassmaking but also its cultural significance, illustrating how Murano glass has influenced art and design worldwide.

Murano is composed of seven small islands connected by bridges, creating a network of canals that mirror Venice itself, albeit on a more intimate scale. This layout gives the island a distinct, village-like feel, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Venice. The streets are narrower, the pace slower, and the atmosphere more relaxed, inviting visitors to wander leisurely and discover hidden corners, artisan workshops, and quaint cafés. While Murano is quieter than Venice, it is by no means lacking in vibrancy. The island’s piazzas and promenades come alive with the chatter of locals and the clinking of glasses at outdoor trattorias. These spaces offer stunning views of the lagoon, particularly at sunset when the light plays off the water and glass displays, creating a magical ambiance. Murano is a destination where history, art, and everyday life are intricately intertwined. The island’s legacy of glassmaking is not just an economic cornerstone but a cultural one, shaping Murano’s identity.

Photo Gallery of Walk – Piazzale Calle Colonna to Fondamenta S. Lorenzo
Approximately 1.33 km – 0.83 miles

The walk starts in Piazzale Calle Colonna – Fondamenta dei Vetrai – Calle Bressagio – Fondamenta Manin – Campiello P. Bigaglia – Fondamenta Manin – Chiesa di San Pietro Martire, Fondamenta dei Vetrai – Fondamenta da Mula – Ponte Longo Lino Toffolo – Riva Longa – Fondamenta S. Lorenzo