Galleria dell'Accademia
After visiting the Uffizi I headed down to see the Galleria dell’Accademia, host of the famous Michelangelo’s David. This museum impressed me more than even the Uffizi gallery. Back in 1784 the gallery was constructed adjacent to the existing Accademia delle Belle Arti so the students could study some of the greatest works of the Renaissance. Walking around the Galleria, the work of art that impressed me most was of course David. The massive sculpture was moved to the Gallery in 1873 from the Piazza della Signoria as to better preserve it and a copy was left in its place. Although the sculpture is an iconic image of the Renaissance, its size and perfect proportions left me in awe. It was commissioned to represent the virtues and power of the Republic of Florence and its freedom from Papal domination.
Other famous works housed at the Galleria are Botticelli’s Madonna and Child and Madonna and Sea, Giambologna's Rape of the Sabines, and more. Also of note is the collection of musical instruments from the "Luigi Cherubini" Conservatory of Music, which I enjoyed in particular since I used to play the viola throughout middle and high school. The galleria was an incredible walk through, I loved everything from its famous works to its beautiful old books, coins, and other past treasures.
"Galleria Dell'Accademia - Accademia Gallery." Accademia Gallery in Florence: Home to Michelangelo's David, Galleria Dell'Accademia Museum. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 May 2013.
Other famous works housed at the Galleria are Botticelli’s Madonna and Child and Madonna and Sea, Giambologna's Rape of the Sabines, and more. Also of note is the collection of musical instruments from the "Luigi Cherubini" Conservatory of Music, which I enjoyed in particular since I used to play the viola throughout middle and high school. The galleria was an incredible walk through, I loved everything from its famous works to its beautiful old books, coins, and other past treasures.
"Galleria Dell'Accademia - Accademia Gallery." Accademia Gallery in Florence: Home to Michelangelo's David, Galleria Dell'Accademia Museum. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 May 2013.