Burano Island | Venice

Burano Island is a small island in the Venetian Lagoon, located to the northeast of Venice, Italy. Famous for its brightly colored houses, lace-making heritage, and peaceful atmosphere, Burano is one of the most picturesque and charming islands in the lagoon. Visitors flock to Burano for its unique beauty, rich craftsmanship, and the stunning views it offers along its canals.

1. Historical Background

• Foundation and Early History: Burano has been inhabited since Roman times, but it developed as a fishing village in the early medieval period. The island's population historically relied on fishing and lacemaking for their livelihood.
• Lacemaking Tradition: Burano is renowned for its lacemaking tradition, which dates back to the 16th century. The island became famous for producing intricate hand-made lace, a craft that was highly prized by European nobility. Burano lace was an important part of the island's economy and has remained a symbol of the island's craftsmanship.

2. Lacemaking Heritage

• Burano Lace: The lace produced on Burano is famous for its delicate, intricate designs, and it became a highly sought-after commodity across Europe. Burano lace was traditionally made by women, who spent years perfecting their skills in various types of lacework, including needle lace and bobbin lace. This art form requires meticulous attention to detail, with each piece being carefully crafted by hand.
• Lace Museum: The Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum) on Burano is dedicated to showcasing the island’s centuries-old lace-making tradition. The museum displays a range of historical lace pieces, including traditional lacework used for clothing, home décor, and ceremonial items. Visitors can learn about the history of Burano lace, the techniques used in its creation, and the women who preserved and passed down these skills.
• Lacemaking Workshops: Today, a few artisans on Burano continue the tradition of lace-making. Visitors can see lacework demonstrations and even purchase authentic Burano lace from local shops.

3. The Colorful Houses

• Vivid Colors: Burano is perhaps best known for its colorful houses, which create a stunning and picturesque atmosphere on the island. The tradition of painting the houses in vibrant colors dates back to the 16th century when fishermen painted their homes bright hues so that they could easily spot them from afar while out at sea.
• Bright Hues: Today, the houses are painted in a wide variety of bright colors, including red, yellow, green, blue, and pink, creating a kaleidoscopic effect throughout the island. The colors are regulated by local authorities, with each house being assigned a specific color to maintain the charm and balance of the island's aesthetic.
• Instagrammable Beauty: The island’s vibrant streets, along with the serene canals that run through them, make Burano one of the most photographed places in the Venetian Lagoon. The picturesque setting of the island, with its brightly painted homes, canals lined with boats, and quaint bridges, makes it a favorite for tourists and photographers.

4. Attractions and Sights

• Piazza Galuppi: The main square of Burano, Piazza Galuppi, is home to several important buildings, including the Church of San Martino (Chiesa di San Martino), which is famous for its leaning bell tower (like the more famous Leaning Tower of Pisa). The church houses a notable painting by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, one of Venice’s most celebrated artists.
• Church of San Martino: The Church of San Martino is the island's main religious building. The church is known for its leaning bell tower and the artwork inside, particularly the "Saint Martin" painting by Tiepolo, depicting the patron saint of Burano.
• Fishing Village Charm: Burano is still very much a working fishing village, and you can often see local fishermen with their catch of the day or boats docked along the canals. The island's fishing industry dates back centuries, and today, it remains an integral part of the island's culture.
• Canals and Bridges: The island is crisscrossed by canals, and you can enjoy leisurely walks along the waterways or take boat tours. The most famous canal, Canal Grande, is lined with colorful buildings and boats, and there are several charming footbridges that cross the canals, offering perfect photo opportunities.

5. Burano’s Culinary Scene

• Seafood: As a fishing village, Burano is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including risotto di pesce (seafood risotto) and frittura di pesce (fried fish). The island has several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy fresh seafood with views of the canals.
• Bussolai: One of the specialties of Burano is bussolai, a traditional buttery cookie that is shaped like a ring. These cookies are often made with egg yolks, flour, and sugar, and they are a popular treat for visitors to the island. Many local bakeries and shops offer them for sale, and they make for a great souvenir.

6. How to Get to Burano

• Waterbus: Burano is easily accessible from Venice by vaporetto (waterbus). The journey takes about 45 minutes from the Fondamenta Nuove or San Zaccaria in Venice. The line 12 vaporetto takes you directly to Burano, and the ride offers scenic views of the lagoon and other islands.
• Private Water Taxi: Alternatively, visitors can take a private water taxi, which offers a faster, more direct route to Burano, although it can be more expensive.

7. Shopping on Burano

• Lace: Burano is the place to buy authentic Venetian lace, whether it’s handkerchiefs, tablecloths, napkins, or delicate lace jewelry. Visitors can find shops selling beautiful lace products that have been carefully made by local artisans.
• Souvenirs: In addition to lace, you can also find a range of handmade goods such as ceramics, glass jewelry, and colorful textiles. The colorful houses themselves are also a popular subject for postcards and souvenirs.

8. Conclusion

Burano Island is a delightful destination that combines rich tradition, vibrant colors, and artistic craftsmanship. Its long-standing lacemaking heritage and colorful homes create a unique atmosphere, offering visitors a glimpse into the history and beauty of life in the Venetian Lagoon. Whether you’re strolling through the picturesque canals, enjoying a meal of fresh seafood, or learning about the island’s lace-making tradition, Burano is a perfect day trip from Venice, offering a slower pace and an unforgettable experience.