Abstract: A light diffusing, insulating glass element is disclosed comprising two thin silicate glass panels (1, 2) each about 2 mm thick, and a thick intermediary layer (3) about 15 to 20 mm thick. The intermediary layer (3) is made from a foamed-up acrylate glass having closed bubbles. This layer has a specific weight of approximately 20 to 30 kg/m.sup.3 and a light transmissivity of 60 to 80% for a layer thickness of 20 mm. A shatterproofing splinter-bonding transparent layer (5) is located between one of the glass panels (1, 2) and the intermediate layer (3) and is bonded to them. The other glass panel is bonded to the intermediate layer (3) by means of a thin adhesive coat.The insulating glass element is light and, because of its safety-glass properties, is particularly well suited for ceiling use.