Located to the east of Venice, Murano extends over five islands, divided by a "small" Grand Canal, the Canale dei Marani. Like Torcello, it was founded by people fleeing Altino (Padua region) in the 6th century, at the time of the barbarian invasions. Its ancient name derives from Ammurianum, the name of one of Altino's gateways. In the Middle Ages, Murano was already highly appreciated for its productive activities: mills and fishing. The island became so important that the Republic of Venice granted it permission to mint its own currency, the oselle, and to have an autonomous Maggior Consiglio with 500 members. Today, it is inhabited by just 4,500 people. In its heyday in the 16th century, Murano had a population of 30,000. Sumptuous palaces and gardens, churches and monasteries were built. Numerous dinners were held here, attended by artists, men of letters and honored guests of the Repubblica Serenissima, such as Henri III (of France) in 1574. Also known as the "Island of Fires" for its many glass furnaces, the real turning point in the island's history came with the decree of 1295, when the furnaces of Venice's master glaziers were transferred to Murano for fear of fire. By the 16th century, the island had 37 glass factories, and this highly specialized industry, whose manufacturing secrets were jealously guarded, conferred innumerable privileges on its owners. Today, the techniques employed in Murano may no longer be a secret, but few craftsmen outside the Venetians can boast greater expertise. Murano's glassworks are internationally renowned. Watch glassblowers at work, still using the same methods and tools as their ancestors: long, hollow canes to blow the glass and simple tongs to stretch it. Glass, crystal and ceramics will make wonderful souvenirs for your trip. Aside from the glassworks, Murano remains a very pleasant town in which to wander through the narrow streets, particularly around the church of San Pietro Martire.

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Pictures and images Murano

Maisons colorées sur l'île de Murano. Stéphan SZEREMETA
Arrivée sur l'île de Murano en vaporetto. Stéphan SZEREMETA
Arrivée sur l'île de Murano en vaporetto. Stéphan SZEREMETA
Arrivée sur l'île de Murano en vaporetto. Stéphan SZEREMETA
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