During the years 1501 to 1504 the Italian renaissance artist Michelangelo delivered a work of such staggering beauty, that to thisday it attracts millions of visitors to its viewing room.
Standing 17 feet tall, the marble statue captures a moment of reflection in biblical history, King David contemplating the forces that helped him become victorious and overcome Goliath. The story of its realisation actually goes back before Michelangelo when the ruling guild had the idea to commission twelve statues from the old testament teachings that were to serve as buttresses to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore (the Duomo). By 1464 Donatello and his assistant had completed two such statues, and they were contracted again to create the David sculpture. The work began but following the death of the Donatello, Antonio Rossellino was commissioned to continue with the project. However Rossellino's contract was also terminated, and there lay the blocks of Carrara marble for twenty-five years.
In 1873 to protect the statue from weather damage the sculpture was moved into its current home, the Accademia Gallery. In its old position of Piazza della Signoria a replica sits to this day.
Opening hours:
Tuesday to Sunday, 8:15 - 18:50
Closed Monday, New Years Day, May 1st, Christmas Day.
Ticket prices:
Full Price: EUR 6,50
Reduced: EUR 3,25
Booking by phone:
Tel: Firenze Museums, 055 294883
Booking charge: EUR 4.00
Buy tickets online
David of Michelangelo
