Venice – Visit the Island of Glass Murano Read more at Suite101: Venice – Visit the Island of Glass Murano

Murano Canal

Venice is made up of an archipelago of islands, taking a boat ride to the outer island of Murano is one option for an adventure, which is just that little bit off the beaten track. The island of Murano is famous for its product, Murano Glass, visiting the island one can obtain a piece Murano Glass ranging in quality from the distinctly tourist tat, to possibly the finest artisan glass produced in Italy.

The History of Murano and Murano Glass

The island of Murano and its history owes itself to the dangers associated with the glass making process. Glass making itself was not invented in Italy or Venice however, by the 13th century the city had become one of the centres of the glass making world.

The problem for the city however, was the ever present risk of fire. As such the Grand Council ordered the removal of the glassworks from the main area of the city and onto the island of Murano. The trade was not only moved to abate the risk of fire, but also as an attempt to protect the commercial secrets of the trade.

The art of glass making has continued to thrive on Murano down the centuries, today one can purchase anything from simple items of jewellery, such as the Murrine to fine chandeliers costing several thousand Euros or more.

Murano Today – The Island and Glassworks

Today, one can reach the island of Murano using the water buses, numbers 12, 13, 41 and 42 make a stop at the island. The trip to Murano is one of the longer boat rides of the Venetian experience and gives a good view of both the main area of Venice and other outlying islands including the Isola Di S. Michele.

On arriving in Murano from the main city of Venice the island can at first feel a little “touristy”. There are many shops and cafes selling their wares of varying quality and the canal sides can be packed with tourists and school parties.

Despite the touristy nature of many outlets, there are also some studios of real quality. If one takes the time to investigate the island a little further and walk some distance from the point of disembarkation. Many shops double up as glass studios, in which one can see artisans working at their craft. If lucky, one may arrive at a number of the studios in which glass is actually being produced in the furnace and blown.

Despite Murano’s famed glass works and studios, the island has more to offer than simply glass. Other features include the beautiful brick built apse of the Santa Maria e San Donato, the San Pietro Martire church and for those of a less religious disposition the islands museum, the Museo Di Arte Vetraria.