Official Information
Official website: https://museomerletto.visitmuve.it/en/home/
Tickets: Buy or check tickets here
Address: Piazza Baldassare Galuppi 187, 30142 Burano, Venice, Italy
Map: View on Google Maps
Opening Hours
The Burano Lace Museum is usually open 10:00–16:00, with last admission at 15:30. It is closed on Mondays, 25 December, 1 January and 1 May. Opening hours may vary slightly by season, so always check the official opening times page before your visit.
What to Expect
The Burano Lace Museum is dedicated to the lagoon’s most delicate and labour-intensive art: lacemaking. Housed in the former Burano Lace School on Piazza Galuppi, the museum covers about two centuries of lace production with a special focus on Burano’s distinctive tradition, which once supplied lace to European courts and aristocracy. Displays are arranged chronologically, showing how techniques and patterns have evolved since the 16th century. Highlights include fine needle lace in intricate floral and geometric designs, altar cloths, collars, cuffs, fans and decorative pieces once used in church vestments or high-fashion attire.
Explanatory panels introduce the technical differences between Venetian needle lace, bobbin lace and other varieties, helping visitors appreciate the number of hours and the skill that each handmade piece requires. One of the most memorable experiences is watching master lacemakers at work during museum hours—these artisans demonstrate historic stitches and patterns, showing the precision inherited through generations.
The museum also tells the story of the Burano Lace School, which was founded in the late 19th century to revive the fading art and provide employment for local women. Historical photographs and documents show how Burano lace gained attention at international exhibitions and how its patterns were catalogued and preserved over time.
Although the museum is compact, allow at least 45 to 60 minutes to look closely and appreciate the detail. Tickets can be purchased individually or as part of a MUVE combined pass with other Venetian civic museums.
Visitor tip: Shopping for lace in Burano requires caution—machine-made or imported pieces are widely sold and are much cheaper than handmade Burano lace, which is rare and expensive due to the time and skill involved. The museum shop is a reliable place for authentic lace with documented origins, and staff can offer guidance about reputable workshops on the island.