Fearing devastating fires, in 1291 the Doge forced Venetian glass workers to move to the archipelago of Murano. Hand-crafted and exquisite, Murano glass became coveted worldwide. Visit a Murano workshop to view glass blowing of jewelry, tableware, chandeliers and sculptures. Scenic Burano, noted for its multicolored houses, rose to prominence after Leonardo da Vinci purchased handmade lace there for Milan’s Duomo. Old women in Burano keep the art alive today. Torcello, inhabited from the 3rd century CE, was for a time a Venetian trade rival. After its lagoon became impassable in the 12th century, it faded despite its grand buildings. Today barely populated, this sleepy outpost was an inspiration for Hemingway.
*NOTE: Guided tour takes 4 hours by water taxi, 6 hours by vaporetto (public transportation). Cheaply made Chinese products are sometimes portrayed as Murano glass – don’t be fooled. Our Guide will take you to reputable Murano glassworks and outlets with fair prices. Look for the trademark window decal “Vetro Murano Artistico.” Ernest Hemingway was inspired to write Across the River and Into the Trees by the island of Torcello. Lunch is not included.
