Burano Island off the coast of Venice, Italy

If you visit Venice you need to make time to include a trip to this interesting and very appealing little Island of Burrano. Famous for it's exquisite lace making it is without doubt one of the highlights on a trip to Venice is this lovely old picturesque village steeped in History. A lot less touristy, with a much more peaceful atmosphere it offers delicious food and spectacular scenery.

The Island is a small fishing village which is famous for it's variety of fresh seafood as well as it's vibrant colored buildings and it's beautiful venetian lace.

Situated in the cluster of islands encasing Murano and Torcello it's a 40 to 45 minute boat ride from Venice.

Captivated by the island's relaxed magic, visitors to Burano are delighted by it's slower pace and old world charm with it's typical Italian cobble stone streets, winding alley ways and artistic treasures.

History

The Islands history dates back to the 5th-6th century, when it was originally settled by refugees from Altinum who were trying to escape pursuit from Attila the Hun. The idea was that the island, one of a few, which at the time were bleak and thought to be uninhabitable swamp land, would provide the perfect hiding place from the fearful tyrant. And they were right as the Huns passed them by making no attempt to access Burano or the surrounding Islands.

Buranos Main Street is named after it's best known prodigy the 18th century composer Baldassarre Galuppi, better known to the locals and throughout Italy by the name of "Il Burranello"

In the town's main square stands the 16th century Church of San Martino with its bell tower, likened to the leaning Tower of Pisa, as it also leans precariously to one side.

Artistic influences

Found alongside the main square is the chapel of Santa Barbara. Housed in this chapel are famous artworks such as Tiepolo's Crucifixion which is dated back to 1725, several works by Giovanni Mansueti dating back to the 16th century, and the piece by Girolamo da Santacroce titled St. Mark and Other Saints.

Burano Lace

Without doubt Burano has a reputation known world wide for the exquisite lace it produces. The lace making school housed in the 19th century building Palazzo della Podesta draws visitors for its intricate unique craft. Established in 1872 so that the traditional art of lace making would not become a lost art, the women of Burano have been handing down their skills and their love of their craft to their daughters for many centuries. There are many shops on the Island selling lace so be sure when making your purchase to ask for a product certificate to verify authenticity.

Food

Italians love their food and it is no secret that sourcing fresh ingredients and making and eating authentic meals from scratch is a national pastime. But the exquisite freshness of the seafood found here assaults your senses stimulating your appetite in a most enticing way demanding a return visit as soon as possible. And do try the sea food risotto's, you won't be sorry as Italians make the best risotto's found anywhere. They are delectable or as the Italians say Bellisimo!!

Restaurants - Try Ai Tre Ponti or Trattoria Primo. But most restaurants are excellent on the island your only problem will be which one to choose from and you'll be telling your friends 'Andiamo friends Andiamo'

Without doubt Burrano Island is a visitor's treat, one which you will not want to miss on your trip to Italy.