Venice tip: Free glass blowing demonstrations on Murano
In Venice, land of gondolas and Guggenheims (Peggy, that is), glass artisans have always thrived. In fact, the island directly north of the city center, Murano, is known as “Glass Island.” Since the 1200s, Venice’s major talents in the glass industry have set up shop here, first making one-of-a-kind pieces for royalty and today, offering their services to the masses.
Glass pass
A trip to Murano is easy, but here’s a quick primer: First, we recommend wandering the streets of Venice proper. Get lost (it’s easy to do!) and browse the windows of the trendy glass shops. Chances are you’ll fall in love with a delicate lamp, or maybe a colorful ashtray, or just a pretty set of wine glasses.
Then, instead of paying retail, hop on a vaporetto and head to Murano. Take in a free glass blowing demonstration. If you’re not visiting one of the bigger factories, there’s no need to make an appointment. Simply stop in and start watching. Most artisans will let you walk right into their warehouses while they’re working. If you’re really lucky, you’ll meet and talk to one of the traditionally trained glass blowers or artists.
Next, ask for a sample (this really only applies to those smaller shops, not factories). Sometimes, they’ll hand you a remnant of colored glass free of charge. Most often, you can buy their unique glass art at a discounted cost.
Or, if you’ve got €5.50 (€3 reduced) to spare, take a tour of the Museo Vetrario (The Glass House). For information including restoration projects and opening and closing times, go here (click on the subheads on the left).
Fun fact: The most well known glass blowers in town are Pauly & C (Compagnia Veneto). Visit their web site (in Italian only) for information about the artists that work there.
Mura-no-no
Ok, so it’s true that people in glass houses (or factories) shouldn’t throw stones. But, just a quick and diplomatic tourist trap note: We’ve heard tales that the Vecchia Murano Glass Factory can be pricey once you’re through the front door. As usual, we suggest sticking with the Ma and Pop glass shops and those single artisan stores.
For more on visiting Murano, go here.
About the author
To touch in ancient technology, to feel the connection with past eras is what is really valuable. Venice is a city that cannot be forgotten
What is the name of the free glass factory you went to?
Merdith, I think your advice is very helpful! I feel that visiting Murano and seeing a glass blowing demonstration is a must when in Venice. The art of glassmaking is something truly remarkable and a unique experience!
Hey Meredith! This is a very well detailed piece of content, thank you!
Seeing live Murano glass craftsmen is absolutely a must once in Venice!
You can literally see and feel how art, tradition and design blend together to give birth to beautiful artworks!
Thank you!
Hi Meredith,
thank you for the nice article!
I completely agree about the tourist traps which sell Murano Glass product imitations. Many shops offer cheap Murano glassworks which are made in China or somewhere else. I have seen on http://www.yourmurano.com/en that “Vetro Artistico Murano” is the only Trademark of Origin by the Italian law which certifies true Murano Glass creations. It appears as an adhesive label with the number of the glassmaker. This is the only way to be really sure to buy a real Murano Glass artwork like vases, sculptures, glassware sets or any other famous Venetian glass creation.
Maria
Hello Meredith! When it comes to producing art glass items, there will be hardly any place in the world better than Murano. The glass artists and blowers here are amazingly skillful. You’re right that single artisan stores can offer unique glass objects at discounted prices. Long live Murano glass! Thanks for this relevant post even after so many years of its publication!
If you come to venice come and visit us at eli’s shopping in canna regio 1744 30121 venice….we sell only autenthic murano glass products!!!otherwise visit our website http://www.elismuranoglass.com it’s free shipping worldwide!!
Wuhuhuhu you really made me laugh about Vecchia Murano,thanks!
I am having such a difficult time reaching someone who might know if Picaasso worked in Murano 50, 60, or 7o years ago!.
i AM DOING RESEARCH . Thank youu fpr any help you may give me or any source I may go to.
Leslie Sweedler
[email protected]
Thanks “Vecchia Murano Glass Factory” for sending us your note. We’ll keep you on our list of noteworthy splurges, since this post was about glass factories that have free tours and usually offer less expensive souvenir items.
Our glass factory has products made by our own glass artists which do make original handmade and unique art pieces, as anybody may notice on our webiste www. vecchiamurano.it. The prices does go accoridng to the value and craftmanship of our special products. Vecchia Murano is one of the oldest glass factories in Venice and has been rewarded with National and International Rewards. If you like please contact us directly and we will be glad to assist in any query.