SILVIA ZANELLA

Born, raised, and still living in Burano, the most colorful island in the world, I am a licensed tour guide, art historian, but also a wife & mum and an Indiana Jones at heart. I love when curiosity dances and sparkles in others too. My path is rooted in a deep sense of belonging, so I have long pursued research on the smaller islands of the Venetian Lagoon: Burano, Torcello, Murano, Mazzorbo, the forgotten La Cura, Sant Ariano, Lazzaretto, La Certosa.. each one is so unique, made of colors, water, horizons, and people that live at a gentler pace. These little-known islands deserve to be explored, and I try to be their voice, so everyone can hear what they silently say. Burano is a lot of who lam. As the third of four living generations of a family that has always lived on the island, even though I didn’t think I had a knack for it, I began lace-making, to learn the ancient and beautiful art before it disappears. Since 2017, I have been creating guided tours that want to be different: beautifully personal, designed as an authentic experience enriched by a historical, anthropological, and artistic perspective, to highlight not only the charming sights but also the culture and local traditions. I wrote a book in 2016 called A Burano con Romeo, and in 2023, I also wrote Immaginamorarsi di Burano for the photographer E. Tagliapietra. Essays for Venissa and Hyatt and a widely acclaimed audioguide further reflect my work. I have been honored to be the face of Burano on TV programs such as Camper on national Rail, and for foreign channels: Channel 5 UK with Big Weekends with Gregg Wallace, France 3 in Des Racines et Des Ailes, and RTVE in Aqui la Tierra. In my career I’ve been a guide also for AstraZeneca, L’Oréal, Yves Saint Laurent, MTV, the Municipality of Venice, and as a liaison officer for the FAO during the G& meeting The most special experience, however, is the daily privilege of meeting extraordinary people during my tours. Discover Burano is my own company.