Venice Part 2 - the city, St Marks's Cathedral and the island of Murano

I am now on my next ship on a cruise around the Mediterranean. Unfortunately I am suffering from seasickness this time, something I have never had before on a big ship, since I take Stemetil tablets to prevent it. I believe it is due to the fact that my cabin is literally at the very back of the ship. It is always much better to be in the centre of the ship, where it is more stable. So I only hope I am up to keeping up writing whilst on this cruise. In the meantime, I am on a waiting list to change cabins, and have just been given another medication, which I was warned will make me somewhat dopey, which Stemetil does as well. (OK, OK - before you say anything - more dopey than usual! I always swore I would not doze off when I sit and relax like my mother always did, but I am sure many of you have had a giggle watching me do just that. It is so embarrassing.) 

Anyhow, I will focus my mind on two lovely experiences we had the next morning in Venice. First we visited the island of Murano, where we saw some incredible works of art in glass, from jewellery to beautiful carafes and matching glasses to intricate chandeliers, as well as a demonstration of the glass blowing involved in creating the sculpture of a horse. Never mind glass-blowing - the whole experience was mind-blowing! You could certainly spend a fortune there!  

Next we went on a ‘Treasures of Venice’ tour with a local guide, and saw some of the rich tapestry of little winding streets, canals and bridges that woven together make this water city so unique. 

The ultimate experience, however, was to view inside St Mark's Cathedral. There were many double-vaulted ceilings, archways and walls all covered in shimmering gold images and superb frescoes, created by some of Italy’s top artists and artisans over a long period of time. All the main Bible stories were told to the people, who could not read or write, through these exquisite works of art. Most of the images were created as mosaics, made from tiny glass tiles - all the gold leaf used was coated with a fine layer of glass. And the centrepiece was a jewelled vault in which was laid the body of St Mark, one of Jesus’ disciples. 

It was frustrating that the cathedral was so crowded, you were pushed through without being able to take in all the lovely images. And, understandably, you could not take photos in there either. But it was an unforgettable, moving and very worthwhile experience to see it.   

I am sorry about this but typical of a ship, the photos are taking too long to upload. I will try posting them later.