The Venetian Islands of Wonder

Covering Venice Lagoon and its islands, Venezia-Murano-Burano is a tourist hub famed for ornate churches including St. Mark’s Basilica, and elegant palaces lining the Grand Canal.

Museums like the Gallerie dell’Accademia display Renaissance paintings, while the Peggy Guggenheim Collection focuses on modern art. Stores selling colored blown glass made on Murano island sit among wine bars and seafood eateries.

But apart from the scenic romantic beauty of these Venetian Islands, what may amaze you is the hand crafted goodness of Venice. Variety of artful alleys, cozy ateliers, handicraft boutiques adorn the lanes of Burano and Murano.

A little history of Murano and Burano

Murano In the 8th century began the traditional art of molding the crystal in an exquisite and subtle form, which has become famous. In order to prevent fires on land that could be produced during the glass-making process, Murano was elected as a “floating” factory, where master glass makers transformed the sand into glass using air and fire to create magnificent pieces. Since the process of creating glass was very complex and economically relevant, glass makers were allowed to enjoy some immunizes of the time, but they were not allowed to leave the Republic in order not to divulge the secrets of their art.

The island of Burano is actually a small archipelago of 5 islands connected through bridges. In the 16th century the lace of Burano became the most famous in Europe and in 1872 was created the first school of lace, known as “Scuola dei Merletti.” Even when it is possible to see and buy these beautiful works, authentic pieces cost a lot and are difficult to find since their elaboration can take many weeks.

Did you know that the handmade tradition of Murano glass, passed from parents to children? The Murano glass is an Italian symbol of luxury and history that develops in a picturesque location, an island within walking distance of Venice where it is possible to arrive by boat.

Did you know that in Burano there is a bell tower with a leaning like the Tower of Pisa? Burano has a single square and a single church with a bell tower that has a strong inclination because the bases that make up the subsoil have yielded.

Why are they called Islands of Wonder?

There’s no doubt that Italians are talented craftsmen and creative designers, their artistic and artisanal excellence is known all over the world. From Ettore Sottsass’s quirky Memphis furniture to Gio Ponti’s lustrous pieces, Italy has been a leader in innovative, beautiful, and high-quality design for decades.

Since the 1950s, design entrepreneurs come to this area to collaborate with famous Italian and foreign artists, bringing to life of iconic furniture and lighting.

All the best Italian-made products merge together traditional craftsmanship and technology in an extremely detailed and almost perfect way. Artisan expertise has an irreplaceable value which allows delicate finishing details and final touches in all manufactured pieces. Human hands are capable of sensitivity and emotion while maintaining almost industrial precision.

Each hand-crafted art piece is truly unique since it is not being mass-produced. Every small little detail embraces the authenticity of its material and maker, a perfection in each flaw is featured.

Burano is one of the most colorful places you will ever visit. The houses are all painted bright bold colors so that the fisherman would be able to find their way home even if they were drunk. Or maybe it was to help the fisherman find their houses in the fog?
Regardless of the reason, it feels like a fairytale. It’s one of the most romantic places in Venice.