Time For Another Venice Adventure!
Yes, that’s San Marcos Square across the grand canal from us – and then there’s this guy, who decided to photo bomb my panorama shot!
We are looking back at the city as we prepare to head to one of the islands in the Venice lagoon – Burano, home to lace and risotto good enough for Keith Richards!
Heading To the Lace Capital Of The World!
Yes, Burano is known as the greatest place to get real lace, intricately woven art that has lasted for generations.
We took a Water Taxi to get there from Venice, and it goes through Venice’s side canals before hitting the Grand Canal – take a look:
Here is a map that shows where Burano island is in relation to Venice and the lagoon…the Venice Lagoon is barely more than a dozen feet deep in most places, so you are literally gliding along a sheet of water…and you pass many other cool islands – some abandoned to time…
Whether you are interested in lace or not, the half hour boat ride to Burano is fun, and the island is adorable: a collection of multi-colored houses lining the canals….
The Leaning Tower Of Burano!
Move over, Pisa! This is another famous “leaning tower” in Burano, caused by the marsh that continues to settle under the ground…
We were part of a walking tour, designed to show us the small island, then lead us to the main square, where all of the lace shops are located – and filled with vibrant colors…
Alex found Martina Vidal, considered the best shop on Burano, and she went inside to buy some items…they ask that no pictures are taken inside, but let me tell you, there are amazing works of lace art in there and we got some!
As the island’s official website points out:
The first laces date back to 1500 and initially their workmanship involved needle-and-thread – without a canvass as a prop. Here the “punto in aria” combined with geometrical designs, flowers, animals, and spirals took place.
In the ‘600 it began to embroider using “punto a crocette”, worked by small flying flowers and the “punto controtagliato”, used for large and in relief billows in necklines. Soon these embroideries spread in Europe and Burano’s lacemakers were invited even in France to start an important lace production.
You can read more here:
https://www.isoladiburano.it/en/lace.html
Because we were part of a group, we couldn’t take part in another of Burano’s famous attraction:
Trattoria da Romano!
Our friend Nick told us that this was the place that Keith Richards ate Risotto at every time he was in Venice, and this picture proves it!
We wanted to get back to Burano, but never did on this trip, but since it’s so easy and fun to go to, we will on our next trip!
Nearby Burano is another famous island in the Venice Lagoon:
Murano Island! Home To Murano Glass Art!
Yes, you arrive by boat of course to Murano as well, and you can watch glass being turned into art right in front of you:
Click my story here to see a Stallion being created in front of our eyes!
More European adventures to come!
Categories: Art, Books / Media, Exotic Travel, Food, Italy, Memoirs, Music, nature, Pop Culture, Recipes, Restaurants, Talent/Celebrities, Travel, Travel Adventures, Travel Memoir
Thanks for sharing John. This brings back so many memories from our trip to the lace island and glassblowing factories. Loved it as well as your post shared at SeniorSalon.
Thanks so much! So many fascinating parts four world to explore!
Thanks for the review of Burano. I loved Venice but didn’t get to any of the islands. I’m sorry I missed this!
That lacework looks so intricate, John. I love the dark sky picture.
Thanks, the island is gorgeous and there are “picture moments” everywhere! We bought some stuff as well because it was so beautiful and intricate
I’ve visited Murano but not Burano yet. Looks like a fun place to explore. Thanks for sharing. #seniorsalon
It’s the more beautiful of the islands, and there are literally dozens of lace shops!
What a fabulous time….
One of my friends makes lace and would absolutely love this.
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Yes, it’s a legendary craft that lives on thanks to these gifted Artisans!
Great to see those traditional crafts still flourishing, courtesy of the tourist industry.
Bruges is also famous for lace shops, and I bought my Mum a souvenir lace table cover when I visited that city.
http://www.apostelientje.be/
Best wishes, Pete.
Thanks for the link, Pete, and I agree, tourism has helped these traditional crafts stay alive – just like the glass sculpting on Murano….thanks for the comment!