Since 1861, Murano’s glass-making prowess has been celebrated in Palazzo Giustinian (the seat of the Torcello bishopric from 1659 until its dissolution) and recent renovations finally do justice to the fabulous collection. On entry a video geeks out on the technical processes innovated on Murano, while upstairs eight rooms walk you through a beautifully curated collection dating back to the 5th century AD.
From the glowing, backlit cabinets of precious Roman glassware in the Origins room, step into the Salone Maggiore (Grand Salon) where three enormous chandeliers appear to float beneath the frescoed ceiling over an exhibit showcasing the Golden Age of glassmaking between the 14th and 17th century. Beyond, colour-themed rooms diverge into glassmaking fashions – etchings, mirrors, table pieces and imitation porcelain made from opaque glass – and the vast and profitable industry of Venetian beads, which were traded worldwide for goods and slaves.
Back downstairs, temporary contemporary glass exhibits are on show in the Spazio Coterie just beyond the museum shop, which now stocks top quality Murano glass gifts, jewellery and art books. On Tuesday and Thursday its possible to take an Italian (noon) or English (2.30pm) guided tour of the museum followed by a glassworking demonstration at the Scuola del Vetro Abate Zanetti .
