The next morning we woke up refreshed and quite ready to start our trip. Zach and I ate a wonderful breakfast of eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, and English Breakfast tea at our hotel. We were up early to beat the crowds and the heat. Our group took a boat ride to the other side of Venice. We could have walked, but it would have taken us a good 45 minutes to an hour at a brisk pace, and we didn't have time for that!
On this first day, we visited the Doge's Palace with its Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark’s Square. We also attended a glassblower demonstration which was spectacular to watch.
The Doge's Palace housed the Doge of Venice, which was the supreme authority of the Republic of Venice. First opened in the 1920s, it is now a grand museum where we saw many paintings, weapons, and a seating area where the jury sat, and where they held court. Then, we crossed the Bridge of Sighs where the prisoners were taken to prison if convicted.
Next, we walked through St. Mark's Square and saw the outside of the Basilica. We made it to the Vecchia Murano Glass Factory and watched the glassblower do his work. He did it so quickly yet precisely. His first demonstration was of a vase, and his second demonstration was of a small horse.
Our next stop was an optional excursion to Burano. We took an hour boat ride to this colorful island. Read more about this island next week on my blog!
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