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Of all the destinations in Europe, there are few which match Italy with respect to the depth of its cultural institutions.
Even in this country, Florence punches well above its weight, as it has tonnes of churches, art galleries and museums which showcase some of the finest pieces of art ever conceived in the history of the world.
Of all the attractions Florence has to offer, don’t miss the Academia Gallery, as the concentration of art treasures contained within easily surpass what can be found elsewhere in this city.
Here’s what you can expect to find inside…
Academia Gallery: home of Michelangelo’s David
If you are planning to drop by the Academia Gallery, chances are you are doing so to check out Michelangelo’s David, the world’s most famous sculpture.
While there is so much more to discover in this venerable institution, we don’t fault you for joining the masses to lay your eyes upon the most flawless example of artistic genius in history.
However, we do advise getting your tickets well in advance through online brokers like www.ticketsflorence.com, as failing to do so will add needless time waiting in line to your travel itinerary.
Once you are face to face with David, you’ll be looking up at a 17-foot tall, pure marble representation of a Biblical hero who stood up against the giant Goliath and triumphed against all odds.
Just remember to keep your camera in your pocket, as the likeness of David is protected by copyright laws, plus flash photography poses a risk to portraits in this statue’s immediate vicinity.
Other Michelangelo works can also be found here
Michelangelo didn’t just craft the world’s best loved statue, he also produced other stunning works throughout his career.
Over the years, the directors of Academia Gallery managed to repatriate a number of his paintings and sculptures to this institution.
They include an intentionally unfinished marble sculpture series known as Prisoners or Slaves, and a Pietà (depiction of the Virgin Mary cradling the dead body of Jesus), both of which were imported from other parts of Europe.
As such, those wanting to explore the works of one of the world’s greatest artists will want to spend extra time here after viewing the David.
Don’t miss its many other amazing Renaissance paintings
Many people visit the Academia Gallery solely to view Michelangelo’s David, only to turn around and leave shortly thereafter.
This is a shame, as there are many other priceless treasures from Italy’s rich past which are on display here. There are a number of portraits lining it walls that come from the likes of Renaissance era wizards such as Perugino, Pontormo, and Bronzino.
Also, make your way to the bottom floor, where Florentine Gothic paintings from the Middle Ages are on display. Overtly religious in nature, it will grant you a glimpse into an age where the church exerted a huge amount of influence over society.
Its latest addition: the Museum of Musical Instruments
Recently opened to the public, the Academia Gallery has just opened a side museum that opens a window how Italians used music to entertain each other in centuries past.
Containing a number of harpsichords, violins, wind instruments, and other musical implements, you will be able to gain an insight into the evolution this art form has undergone in the generations since the Renaissance era.
The post The Accademia Gallery in Florence: What you Need to Know appeared first on Pommie Travels.
Source: pommietravels.com