Carnevale had arrived in Venezia and PJ and I wanted to check it out sans the rain of the prior year. Carnevale tends to be a crowded time to head into the city, so we figured we would explore and check out some of the outfits, but mainly check out the beautiful island of Murano.
Murano is a quick vaporetto [ferry boat] ride from Venezia. You can find the closes departure point at Fondamente Nove. Murano is known for their amazing glass blowing. and became "Italy's glass art capitol in 1291." From what I read, the glassblowers were moved to Murano because blowing glass in a city made of wood houses was too dangerous. They were then sent to the island to live and work, which is where they stayed.
I found this bit of information on a USA today post:
"Over time, artisans pioneered new techniques and styles that included crystalline and enameled glass, gemstones, Millefiori, milk glass and the art of threading gold into glass. Belonging to the island's elite class of artists was a double-edged sword. Glassblowers were revered and respected, but by the late 14th Century, officials were so concerned that the rest of the world would learn Murano glassmaking secrets, they forbade artisans from leaving. If they escaped and were caught, they could be killed or have their hands cut off."
Anyway, after a delicious pizza lunch on one of the canals, we decided to explore what the island had to offer.
The stores are gorgeous, however most don't allow pictures] Visitors must be careful of fake Murano glass. Before visiting the island I read that is the price seems too good to be true, it probably was and that some stores were selling glass 'made in China'. The article said to always ask to see the certificate of authenticity before purchasing. The glass was quite expensive, but so beautiful. Maybe I will find the perfect piece before moving away.
If you ever find yourself on the island of Murano, you should check out:
-The glass factories
-The glass museum
-The Basilica of Saint Mary and Saint Donatus
-Campo Santo Stefano
-Palazzo Da Mula
-All of the glass shops!
After our window shopping, we headed back to check out some more of Carnevale. We took the vaporetto to Piazza San Marco, which was a beautiful ride, albeit rather long, and checked out some of the performances on the stage and the many decorated patrons.
 |
| Never snack in Piazza San Marco, unless you want to pay 18x the normal price |
No comments:
Post a Comment