Venice itself is actually made up of about 100 individual islands that have either been connected by bridges or have been filled in to expand the land mass. There are a number of other surrounding islands that became their own cities, like the three I visited today; Murano, which is known for their glass factories, Burano, which is known for its lace making, and Torcello which currently has a total of 20 permanent residents on it and is known for its ancient church. These islands were originally salt marshes like in the picture below, that were built up and developed.
I’ve included a number of photos of some of the amazing glasswork done in Murano, from tiny miniatures to large scale chandeliers. The island itself has an industrial feel to it, but the shops are beautiful. Most shops discouraged people from taking photos inside the store, so I took most of these outside from window displays.
I think this lamp would be a great replacement over our sink at home. But, no, I did not buy it. However, I did purchase a couple of gift glass pieces to be shipped home - none of them are pictured.
I loved this “wall-hanging”. Each link is a separate piece of glass.
This table centerpiece of fruit wasn’t much large than my thumb!
I love architecture, houses, and design and this island was amazing! I could have spent the entire day just wandering these streets and taken photographs. I think it might be the paint layers alone that are keeping these houses upright. And here are some samples of the lace work done here. When I looked back through the photos I’d taken, I realized that I’d only taken two photos of their lacework. I guess I was more mesmerized by the brightly colored homes/buildings.
And then it was off to Torcello. I was looking forward to entering the church here, but came away a bit angry. First, it cost 5 Euros to enter, which didn’t bother me at all when I paid it. Second, you were not allowed to take photos, not just “no flash photography”, which is understandable. But no photos, at all. And they have security and cameras watching. Also, it would be understandable to have a no photo policy due to religious ceremonies that might be going on, at the time. I’ve seen those notices about asking people to not take photos during worship services and to be respectfully quiet, and to not wander around during those times. But, this church is no longer a functioning church. The entire sanctuary is bare of any seats or pews. I’m not sure if has been deconsecrated or not. But, there are some impressive mosaics and stone carvings, beautiful tile work in the floor, a massive wooden dome, all of which I’d love to have taken photos of to remember. Oh well. Here are pictures of the outside.
Along the walk to the church, I came across these homes and photo-worthy shots.
Some views from the boat, like the old cemetery on its own island.
This is the cemetery - San Michele
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