Murano and Burano

Many tourists never leave Venice, but in the lagoon lay a couple of other treasures; the island of Murano with its world famous glass, and the island of Burano with fine silk and lace. Venice first became known for its glass in the 10th century, and in 1291 all the glass factories were ordered to move to the island of Murano because of the fire hazard they posed to the city. Another, unwritten reason, was to keep the artisians in an easy-to-control area. The glass artisans were granted huge privileges, but those who dared leave the island faced severe penalties, even death. The methods of their craft were to be kept top secret and stayed that way for eight centuries. Burano’s specialty is the silk and lace, but I love it more for all the colorful houses.

The Murano fruit & vegatable stand.
Crafting a little glass horse.
Angie's new chandelier.