Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato

Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato This is the oldest church in Murano, dating back to the 9th century, and one of the island’s most important historical landmarks. The exterior is simple, but the interior is truly impressive, especially the beautiful 12th-century mosaic floor with animal motifs and the golden Byzantine-style apse mosaic of the Virgin Mary. The basilica also houses the relics of Saint Donatus, giving it strong spiritual significance. A peaceful and meaningful place to visit, offering a deeper insight into Murano’s history beyond its famous glassmaking tradition.

This lovely old church has beautiful mosaic floors. Behind the altar, there are bones displayed which are said to be those of a dragon killed by Saint Donatus. Much of Murano is devoted to glass blowing, tourist shops, and restaurants. This church makes a nice respite from that.

Murano itself is a bit overpriced and underwhelming, but this church visit was by far the most unpleasant experience I had there. The elderly lady at the entrance was on the phone when I arrived — no problem, I patiently waited and even greeted her kindly. My mom and I were quietly looking around, trying to see the stained glass artwork, but since the church was very dark, I couldn’t find it. When I asked her where it was, she rudely told me to “read the sign.” Then she abruptly said, “Pay now.” I simply replied, “Never mind,” and left with my mom. This is not someone qualified to work at a touristic site. As for the church itself, it’s nothing remarkable. Don’t waste your time.

This beautiful church really only drew me in for the dragon bone myth. It has a lovely courtyard and nice mosaics. There are information posters describing the art and building. The dragon bones are behind the front alter. It cost 3.50 euro, cash only.

I really really wish we had time to go in to see the dragon bones. But the outside alone is so magnificent already. I loved walking by it everyday we were in Murano. As beautiful at night as in the day.

Very lovely and church activities were still ongoing. Understand it's the largest church in the world

Great Duomo with tower in Murano. Away from hustle bustle of Venice. Entry was €3-4. The outside is much more beautiful than inside, although the glass windows might look beautiful on a sunny day with sun rays coming through those windows.

Really old and beautiful, especially the mosaic floors. A quick stop but really worth it if you’re in Murano! Put 2 euros in the machine to light up the ceiling. Don’t miss the whale bones behind the altar that were legendary dragon bones.

This is a beautiful basilica located on the island of murano. It took about 35 minutes to get there by vapareto from the Arsenale stop. The basilica has some of the most magnificent 12th century Byzantine style mosaics - in the apse in the Virgin Mary standing alone amidst a gold background, while the floors are also beautifully mosaic too. Entrance fee is 3.50 euro- well worth it in my opinion.

Beautiful church. It's worth seeing. No pictures allowed as is true in most churches but we saw tourists taking pictures anyway. The area is photogenic outside and there's a nice restaurant right by the church that has outdoor tables and there's also a gelateria near it.