Not far from Venice is the island of Murano. 2 km separate the island from the city, and this distance was very critical in the development of Murano and in its transformation into a world center of glass production and glass art.
The truth is that it used to be Venice, where all the glass smiths lived. In the 13th century, all the glass makers were ordered to move to the island of Murano. Far enough from Venice and with a lot of water around, the danger of fire will stay far from the city.
This profession became popular among the island people. Over time Murano became a center for producing glass products that are known throughout Europe and even the world. Murano’s flagship products were glass mirrors and beads. Then it was the chandeliers that made Murano a brand.
Since then, the world has changed a bit, other materials have gained popularity, and glass is produced in more industrial ways. The residents of Murano found other occupations, but a loyal core of glassblowers continued to live and work in the city. Even today, several thousand residents come to the workshops where they design glass products every morning.
With such a history, it required that a museum be built on the island that tells the story of the industry that made Murano famous worldwide. In the museum, right in the center of the island, you can learn about the process of making glass. From start to finish, get to know and understand what happens in each stage, and even watch the blacksmiths in action.
On the museum’s two floors, you can also find displays of art in glass and unique items made of glass from different periods of history. With the most successful ones being displayed from the golden glass age in Murano (in the 16th century). In the courtyard of the museum, there is an extensive collection of glass miniatures.
This is one of the most famous glass museums in the world and if you come to the island with children. Children especially like to watch the glass blowing process and enjoy the stay.
Even if you don’t get to visit the museum, you can always work in one of the workshops on the island and see the blacksmiths in action. Of course, there are glass shops of Murano artists, where you can buy souvenirs or just admire the beauty of the works.
The museum is open daily from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm. During the winter, between November and April, the place closes earlier, at 4:30 pm. The price of an adult ticket is 10 euros. Children and students pay a reduced price of 7.5 euros per person.
