Travelers all over the world are blown away by the rainbow colored houses in Burano Island, in Northern Italy, just 45 minutes from Venice proper, by boat. The island which boasts of vividly colorful homes is actually an archipelago of 4 tiny islands, joined by bridges.
Burano is populated by only about 3,000 people but visitors all over the world go all the way to Italy just to see the village. There's a certain tranquility and euphoria the vibrant houses as well as the green waters bring.
The official website narrates the legend of how the beautiful island came to be. In ancient times, the firshermen were said to be the first to color their houses, and that the purpose of doing so was to see their homes from a distance while they are fishing.
According to Metrosource, the choices of colors are not random; there has been a pattern being followed for ages. If a household wishes to paint their home, one must ask for permission from the government which will give a list of permissible colors to be used for that house.
Another tourist must see is the Burano's leaning bell tower which is a seventeenth century leaning tower with Renaissance and neoclassical architectural features.
Burano is also known for their lacemaking industry. Since the 16th century, lacemaking has been its main craftsmanship attraction, earning them the title 'Lace Island.' At the center of the island is the Galuppi Square, where locals are visited by guests for their lace shops. There is also a Lace Museum "Museo del Merletto" which houses the most notable lace crafts in the island.
Local dishes include "risotto de gò" which is a fish dish sold in Burano's tavern or "trattoria buranella." Authentic Italian pizza and ice cream are also served at the square.
From its soothing rainbow colored neighborhood to its rich culture and sumptuous dishes, Burano is surely a bucket list-worthy place to visit.
