13 – Museo del Merletto
13 – Museo del Merletto. Located in Burano, it recounts the history and traditions of lace-making; from its origins to the 20th century.
On one of the prettiest islands in the Venetian lagoon, the women of Burano, have been making lace since at least the 1400’s and this small museum, was once the lace-making academy.
Here you can learn about different types of lace and also the machines, tools and implements; used to weave the fabric. Sadly, only a handful of skilled lace-makers still live on the island today and you can see them at work in the museum.
There’s also a small exhibit on the history of Burano.
Building and History
Layout and Collections
Live Lace-Making Demonstrations
Guided Tours and Educational Programs
To 25 recommended Museums
Location – Opening times – Tickets and Concessions – MUVE scheme
Links (internal–external)
- Located on small and pretty island of Burano
- Over 100 pieces of lace artwork and multimedia presentaqtion
- Cost: €5,00 (adults), €3,50 (reduced)
- Suggested duration: 1 hour
- Vaporetto stop: First go to Fondamenta Nuove, on Venice: Line 4.1, 4.2, 5. Then on to Burano: Line 12
- Everywhere is within 10-15 minutes walking distance on this colourful and densely built up island. Located nearby the Museum, is the Chiesa di San Martino church, worth visiting. You should definitely see the fisherman’s houses and enjoy the wonderful restaurants, serving the best fish and sea-food dishes.
Building and History Museo del Merletto
In 1978, the public administrations of Venice (the Town Council, Provincial Authorities, Chamber of Commerce, Tourist Boards); joined together with the Andriana Marcello Foundation, in a “Consortium for Burano Lace”.
This was the beginning of a campaign to revive and re-evaluate this art. The archives of the old School, full of important documents and drawings, were re-ordered and catalogued; the building was restructured and transformed into an exhibition site.
The museum is located at the historic palace of Podestà of Torcello, in Piazza Galuppi; seat of the famous Burano Lace School, from 1872 to 1970.
Rare and precious pieces, offer a complete overview of the history and artistry of the Venetian and lagoon’s laces; from its origins to the present day, are on display.
LAYOUT AND COLLECTIONS
The visit starts with the main room on the ground floor, where a short film subtitled in English, calls for an impressive journey into the fascinating world of laces. Didactic panels, reveal the secrets of this skilful technique and its various lace points (Venice Lace point, Burano Lace point, etc).
The visit continues on the first floor, where the collection is chronologically organised and spread across four rooms; corresponding to the following areas below.
Each of these sections is accompanied by videos, illustrated explanations and a number of other vintage items (glasses, clothes, books, drawings, paintings); which frame the works and offer an easy and multidisciplinary understanding.
During the opening hours of the museum, you will be able to see the work of the skilled lace-makers; custodians of an art passed down from generation to generation.
Live Lace-Making Demonstrations
One of the most captivating aspects of the Museo del Merletto is the live lace-making demonstrations, where visitors can watch skilled artisans continue a centuries-old tradition. These demonstrations offer an up-close look at the intricate process of crafting stunning lace patterns, showcasing the incredible talent required to keep this ancient art alive.
Guests can experience:
The historic craft of lace-making, passed down through generations of master artisans.
The meticulous craftsmanship involved in designing delicate lace patterns using traditional methods.
Hands-on workshops that teach the basics of lace-making under the guidance of experts.
The rich history of Burano lace-making and its influence on fashion, textiles, and European artistry.
These events not only preserve this timeless art form but also allow visitors to engage directly with artisans and marvel at the exceptional skill behind their handmade lace creations.
Guided Tours and Educational Programs
The museum offers self-guided, private, and group tours, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace or with expert guidance from museum specialists. These tours provide a great opportunity to learn about the history, craft, and culture of Burano lace, enhancing the overall experience. Special educational programs are also available for:
Students and researchers, focusing on in-depth studies of lace-making history.
Fashion designers and artists, offering hands-on learning of lace-making as a design technique.
Fashion historians and history enthusiasts, exploring the connection between Venetian lace and European aristocratic fashion.
Location
Museo del Merletto – Piazza Galuppi 187 – 30142 Burano
Please be aware that bags and backpacks may be checked at the entrance of the museum. It is also requested that all bulky items be stored in the wardrobe.
Opening Hours
Regular Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 – 16:00 Last Admission: 15:30 Museum Closing Operations: Begin 20 minutes before closing
Closed: Mondays Special Evening Openings (May 1 – Sept 30, 2025) Fridays & Saturdays: Open until 17:00 (last admission 16:30) Closed on public holidays, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day
Tickets & Concessions
Full Price: €5
Reduced Ticket: €3.50 (Venetians, pensioners, and students)
Children 6 and under: Free
Group Discounts: Group school visits and organized groups can benefit from discounts
Guided tours and educational programs in various languages are available to assist in generating visitor interest.
App allows skip-the-line access and free cancellation up to the day before
Accessibility: The museum is open to all mobility-impaired persons, with ramps, lifts, and wheel chair-accessible routes.
MUVE Scheme
The museum is part of the MUVE (Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia) network, which offers:
- Combined Tickets: Access to multiple civic museums in Venice
- Discounts & Concessions: For students, older people, and Venice residents
- Learn all about the MUVE money-saving scheme in my post: Venice Museum Guide
TOP 25 RECOMMMENDED MUSEUMS
Select your museum and click on the link below:
1 – Palazzo Ducale (The Doge’s Palace)
2 – Peggy Guggenheim Collection
6 – Scuola Grande di San Rocco
8 – Palazzo Grassi (Francois Pinault Collection)
11 – Fondazione Querini Stampalia
12 – Museo del Vetro
13 – Museo del Merletto (not linked)
24 – Museo Provinciale di Torcello
25 – Museo Archeologico Nazionale
LINKS (internal – external)
Official Website of the Museo del Merletto
LINK to PDF document, you can download with detailed information
Opening hours: From 14 February: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-4pm
Phone: +39 041 730034
Tickets. Adults: € 5 Children (6 – 14 years old): € 3,50
Joint ticket for the Glass Museum on Murano and the Lace Museum € 12.
MUSE (Fondazione Musei Civici Venezia Pass), covering 11 museums around Venice: Single Adults € 37. Concessions: € 19
Please be aware that bags and backpacks may be checked at the entrance of the museum. It is also requested that all bulky items be stored in the wardrobe.
To widen your experience and enjoyment before visiting, please see my comprehensive and illustrated posts below.
The Venetian Lagoon and its Ecosystem
All my 21 posts of Islands of the Lagoon
13 – Museo del Merletto 13 – Museo del Merletto 13 – Museo del Merletto 13 – Museo del Merletto