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The Dragon Bones of Murano
Hidden Amongst all that Venetian Glass
Murano is renowned for her glass. The glass blowing skills of the fioleri (glass blowers) have been famed for centuries, creating ethereal works synonymous with the city of Venice.
The island is reached by a short ferry ride across the Venetian lagoon — an idyllic journey in any weather. The place itself is postcard perfect, and on the day I visited everything glistened in the spring sunshine. The street along the main canal is lined with colourful shops, offering all manner of glass creations, from tiny animals to extravagant chandeliers which would take a life-time to clean. The footpath was packed with just as equally colourful crowds.
Yet stepping away from the main stretch with its throngs of tourists I found a world where people actually live. The further back I went the buildings became grew gradually more frail, gracious courtesans who have seen better times. Locals sheltered from the sun under the awning of a cafe, and their lunch smelt delicious. They appeared to have settled in for a long afternoon, for they were still there when I wandered back.
