Burano and Torcello, Italy

Two of the islands near Venice—Burano and Torcello—are delightful places to visit. Burano is a brightly painted fishing village that was known for its fine lace. Lace is still sold in shops. We visited both islands, along with Murano, famous for its glass, one recent snowy afternoon. Some sights in Burano:

Torcello, founded in the 5th Century is one of the oldest inhabited islands in the region and is home to the area's oldest church.

I liked the pink street lanterns against tree limbs and the grey sky:

Once a thriving village, today Torcello has fewer than 100 residents and I noticed a house for sale so there may another change in the near future. It is said that Ernest Hemingway liked and frequented the island.

Snow-dusted statues near the island's cemetery.

Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral and the Church of Santa Fosca are the primary sites of interest today.