Murano island
Glass Cathedral
Glassblowing in the former church of Santa Chiara
Former church turned event space, known for excellent live glassblowing demonstrations.
Murano Colonna + 4-min walk
www.santachiaramurano.com
+39 041 712 3808
Standard admission is €15. Free for children under 12.
Additional resources
What makes it special
From sacred to industrial
Across 800 years of transformation, the site began as one of Murano's earliest religious communities, home to Augustinian monks and later Benedictine nuns. Its quiet life was upended by a Napoleonic decree dissolving the monasteries, which repurposed it as a busy industrial complex. Under successive owners, it continued as a factory and warehouse, furnaces burning and production replacing prayer, until decades of decline gave way to its revival beginning in 2012.
An unusual space
The vast nave unfolds across two floors, adorned with chandeliers, ornate mirrors, and stained-glass details that evoke the church's sacred past while celebrating Murano's glassmaking tradition.
Glassblowing Demonstrations
Longer and more relaxed than most in Murano, these demonstrations last around 30 minutes, feature a variety of creations, include clear narration, and can be enjoyed with a drink in hand.
Discover more about Glass Cathedral through 12 photos with explanations.
Open galleryBook your glassblowing experience
See a master glassmaker at work in a relaxed, unhurried demonstration, shaping molten glass creations before your eyes.
Take time before or after to wander this historic space and admire its sparkling glass decorations.
Drinks are included with your ticket.
Getting here from Venice
We cover all the ways to get to Murano, from vaporetto to private transfers, in the dedicated section on the island.
Your questions, answered
We've answered some of the most common questions about Glass Cathedral to help you plan your visit:
Why choose this glassblowing demo over the many others in Murano?
While not the cheapest, this experince stands out for several reasons: it's relaxed and unhurried, lasts around half an hour, comes with no pressure to buy souvenirs, and takes place in a remarkable historic venue.
Can I take photos or videos during the demo?
Absolutely.
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