HISTORY
Burano is an old fishing village that is famed for its brightly colored, rowed houses and world renowned lace makers. Burano has been the home to fisherman since the 6th century when it was founded by Romans fleeing the city of Altino after a barbarian invasion. Burano was initially built on palafittes built using woven canes and held together with plastered mud.
After the town became a more established village, the palafittes were replaced with bricks and painted with a vibrant array of colors. While the origins of the colors are unknown, it is rumored that the bright colors were to help fishermen find their homes in the thick fog that sometimes covers the lagoons of Venice. Different families have painted their house the same color for generations and new residents have to send a request to the government so that they paint it the correct color.
In the 16th century, Burano rose from an obscure fishing village to one prized for its magnificent lace work. At the time, women used a needle to painstakingly create the ornate lace, which became a prized trade item all over Europe. In the 18th century a lace making school opened in Burano that taught new generations of Burano lace makers the art form.
WHAT TO DO IN BURANO
Burano is still a lively village filled with locals and tourists alike. We highly recommend exploring its amazing lace workshops and adorable sweetshops. Other products like Venetian glass and bedazzled masks are available in a variety of quaint boutiques. Piazza Galuppi is in the heart of Burano and named after the musician Baldassare Galuppi. We advise that you visit when the square is transformed into an Old Fish Market where tourists can participate in ancient crafts and learn more about fishing. Other sites include the ancient lace school and the Lace Museum, which is situated in a handsome gothic palace.
Look out for the leaning tower of Burano and the lovely Saint Martin Bishop’s Church as you explore the colorful street of Burano. Like Venice, Burano can also be seen by boat as canals are interwoven throughout the town. We loved visiting the Istrian Stone Well can give you a glimpse into ancient times as it dates back to 500 AD.
Of course Burano is also heaven for social media influencers and the average tourist alike. Each house is a different dazzling color and they are often decked out with flowers or lace curtains. We loved finding a house that matches our outfits perfectly which is easy considering the houses are painted every color in the rainbow. The Tre Ponti, or the three bridges, is the perfect spot to throw your arms up. The most colorful home in Venice, Bepi’s House is bright red, blue, green and yellow. Additionally, the Burano sunset is also the perfect time to get a picturesque photo of the lagoons.
If you are looking for a quick snack you have to pick up a bussolà, Burano’s famous round cookie, from one of the many shops in Burano’s center. Gelato and other sweet treats are also abundant on the island. If you are looking for something more filling or savory, we recommend Burano’s famous risotto de gò, fish risotto.
THE SITES SURROUNDING BURANO
Of course, everyone knows the acclaimed city of Venice, which is located a half-hour boat ride away from Burano. From the glorious Rialto Bridge to Saint Mark’s Square, the sites are a true wonder. Every block has a new shop, restaurant, or museum to explore. Burano can serve as a less touristy home base for a savvy traveler.
We also enjoyed, the Island of Murano is celebrated for its glamorous glass goods. On the island, you can watch the glass being made by highly-skilled glassmakers in the artisan factories located on the island. From chandeliers to jewelry you definitely want to pick up a breathtaking souvenir from the island. They have been making glass on the island since 1291 when the government ordered the glassmaker to move out of the city of Venice to prevent fires.
San Francesco del Deserto is an adorable island inhabited entirely by friars. The friars live in a charming monastery and cloisters which were founded in 1230. You can explore the grounds and see the glorious gardens that surround it. The fresh air and quiet will have you leaving the island feeling completely serene. You get to the island by private boat and escape the majority of tourists.
The Island of Torcello is a short boat ride away and is famous for its spectacular Byzantine mosaics. They are from the seventh century and located in the soaring Cathedral of Santa Maria Dell’Assunta. Ruins of churches and palaces are dotted across the ancient city and you can climb up to the Cathedrals bell tower for an exquisite panoramic view of the city. There are many delicious restaurants and cute shops to explore as well.
WHERE TO STAY?
We suggest staying at Casa Burano which utilizes the hotel diffuso concept with five separate homes scattered across the village of Burano. These adorable cottages were formally owned by fishermen and lace makers, Burano’s most famous luxury product. The inside of the houses are decorated with modern interior design. The unique furniture and art pieces have been sourced from local artisans and prominent Italian designers. They are also updated with high speed WiFi, fluffy robes, flat screen TVs, and air conditioning for the Italian sizzling summers.
The delightful cottages will make you feel like a Burano local as you will be steps away from Burano’s sweet shops, lace makers, and boutiques. Additionally, the illustrious city of Venice is only a short boat ride away. So, whether you are enjoying the sumptuous interior of the homes or exploring the dazzling sites around it you will love Casa Burano.
For another, equally lavish experience stay at Venissa Wine Resort which is a magnificent bed and breakfast located in Mazzorbo, Italy. It was converted from a elegant three-story estate into the exquisite luxury hotel it is today. The owners worked hard to restore it using Venetian techniques. Venissa only has six splendid rooms, so you will receive unparalleled service and privacy. The interior designer, Mariano Zanon, decorated the hotel with an impeccable vintage ambiance. The breakfast is a decadent mix of savory cheeses and delicious treats.
The Michelin-starred Venissa restaurant is also available to guests. It is surrounded by walled vineyards and the Venetian Lagoons. The delectable Golden Grape, Dorona, is grown in the vineyards of Mazzorbo. In fact, it is almost extinct now, so the wine produced from it is very rare. The hotel offers wine tastings and a tour of the vineyard that will be the highlight of your trip. Mazzorbo is connected to the island of Burano by a long bridge and Venice is just a boat ride away.
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