Glass Cathedral

Glassblowing in the former church of Santa Chiara

Former church turned event space, known for excellent live glassblowing demonstrations.


Standard admission is €15. Free for children under 12.

See tickets


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.

Glass Cathedral : Glassblowers light wet newspaper on fire at the end of the process to shape, smooth, and polish the molten glass without damaging it

Discover more about Glass Cathedral through 12 photos with explanations.

Open gallery

Book 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.

How to get to Murano

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.

What to see nearby

These top spots are just a short walk from Glass Cathedral:

More like this

Inspired by Glass Cathedral? Discover more atypical spots in Venice:

View on mobile