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Day 2 - Venice - visit to Murano, Burano & Torcello and Palazzo Ducale
Today we woke up relatively early so we could check out of the hotel and join a boat cruise to the islands of Murano (famous for glass), Burano (famous for lace) and Torcello (very old church). On the way we had a typical Veinician breakfast of pastry and coffee.
The cruise was enjoyable a part from a few noisy groups that seem to like the sound of their own voices they speak so loud. On the Island of Murano we were treated to a glass blowing and glass sculpting demonstration. We were then escorted through the factory shop. The glass objects for sale were quite amazing and in some cases very expensive. Unfortunately we were not allowed to take pictures. We were also restricted to just the factory and could not further explore the island.
We then travelled to the nearby island of Burano. We were taken to a local lace shop where an elderly lady was demonstrating lace making. This was a treat for Nicole. After looking through the shop we were able to wander through the Main Street looking at the many other shops. The town looked amazing with brightly coloured houses and clearly were we looked after. Nicole found another lace shop and was able to discuss lace making with another lady, she also purchase a rather nice, but pricey handkerchief. This one will definitely be for show. We then departed the island for Torcelli. Unfortunately for some passengers who were late getting back and missed the boat.
At Torcelli we walked along a paved pathway beside a canal towards the S. Maria Basilica, the origins of which date back to the 7th century. We walked around the Basilica that now looks out of place in a barren landscape. We didn't have too long on the island before we needed to re-board the boat for our return to Venice.
It was early afternoon when the boat arrived back in Venice so we lunched at a water front restaurant. We both ate sensibly by ordering a caesar salad.
After lunch we visited the Palazzo Ducale. The building was massive and the courtyard was imposing. The rooms in the Palazzo were truly magnificent and the photos don't do them justice. We also visited the attached prison that connects to the Palazzo through the Bridge of Sighs. Well worth the visit.
Following the Palazzo we wound back through the Venetian streets back to our hotel where we rested for an hour or so before heading to the station for our train to Florence.
I have uploaded photos to two albums.
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