Murano, Burano e Torcello

If you have a day more to spend in Venice we suggest that you visit the fascinating small islands of the lagoon: Murano, Burano and Torcello.

Murano is famous all over the world thanks to its ancient tradition of glass making, particularly lampworking. Not to be missed is the Glass Museum where more than 4000 pieces are displayed, showing the evolution of the technique of glass making throughout the centuries (ranging from Egyptian times through the present day).

Burano is one of the gems of the lagoon: it is a miniature Venice where all the houses are brightly coloured. The small island is famous for its craftmade lacework, which is an art that was in fashion since the 16th century and that made Burano famous all over the world. Some attractions are: the Church of San Martino, with a tilting campanile and a painting by Giambattista Tiepolo (Crufixion, 1727), the Oratorio di Santa Barbara and the Museum and School of Lacemaking.

Torcello is an extremely romantic place. It is full of history, since it is considered the oldest continuously populated region of Venice, and once held the largest population of the Republic of Venice. Some of the attractions of Torcello are the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with much 11th and 12th century Byzantine work, including mosaics (such as the Last Judgement), the Palazzo del Consiglio, which was once the seat of the communal government, and Attila’s Throne, located in front of the Cathedral.