Here we are more than 500 years later, still mesmerized by Michelangelo’s David. His image is iconic…probably the best known statue in the world! Can we ever get enough of him? I know that I can’t!

As you know, if you’ve been following along, I’m an avid museum lover. Since my arrival here in Florence last October, museum openings and hours have been sporadic and subject to the 
“zone” restrictions (only open during “yellow” zone). Many museums have been shut for months and have taken the hiatus to renovate and/or to adapt and reconfigure to a new “COVID” reality.

If you recall I had an extraordinary “date” with David back in November (2020) only a day before museums had to close (again). David’s home, the Accademia Galleria has remained closed until a few weeks ago in mid-May (2021) albeit it has re-opened with a new look…

As Italy moves toward re-opening and tourism, I knew that within a few months (and certainly by summer/fall), I would not have the privilege of visiting museums without crowds. So, as soon as they started to open I immediately booked to revisit. Some, which have not been open since I’ve been here, are also opening although with limited dates and times. I have to say, as one who loves them, it has been pure heaven and an embarrassment of riches to visit/revisit these museums and sites…

High on my list was, of course, the David. I always try to book weekdays and early entry. I had read that the Accademia had reconfigured during a remodel so I was interested to see and compare my experiences.

If you read and saw my earlier blog post and videos, when you visit that’s not what you’ll see. Here is the “new” configuration of the Accademia…

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Your visit starts with exhibit from the previously closed Museum of Musical Instruments  inaugurated in 2002.

On exhibit are over forty beautifully preserved and displayed instruments from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

The collection comes from the Grand-Ducal collections of the Medici (notice the Medici coat of arms on one of the instruments) and Lorraine families and includes several Stradivarius violins…

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Then, you continue through a long corridor lined with large cases of the Bartolini plaster casts and models grouped thematically.

Why? Well, the Bartolini exhibit is being renovated and the other collections also had to be moved.

So, where to put the hundreds of plaster castings and paintings ? They have been been integrated into another corridor and the main gallery.

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Paintings of from the 14th Century Room, Late Gothic Art Room, Icon, and of contemporaries of Michelangelo and younger are tastefully exhibited in a long corridor for easy viewing and appreciation.

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Now, when you come upon the David, you come from a “side” entrance.

More of the Bartolini collection is displayed on either side as well as in between Michelangelo’s unfinished “Prisoners” (often referred to as the Slaves) and two other sculptures.

All as splendid and evocative as ever…

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Needless to say, this “new” exhibit has invited mixed reviews.

Personally, I think that, although thoughtfully arranged, the plaster casts can dilute and distract from the experience of the pure timeless genius of Michelangelo.

I’ll let you draw your own conclusions, but there is no denying that David remains the star attraction…for everyone!

And to be in his presence again…well, the reverential silence says it all…

Doubtless, seeing David at the Accademia Galleries should remain high on your list of  “things to do” in Florence!

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⇓Up Close & Personal: Movies of David ⇓

(Just CLICK on Any of the Videos Listed Below to View HERE!)

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© All Photos & Videos are My Own

The more I read and learn about Michelangelo, the deeper my appreciation and admiration. I would like to suggest:
The Agony and the Ecstasy, Irving Stone
Michelangelo and the Pope’s Ceiling, Ross King
On My Reading List:
Books on Michelangelo by William Wallace

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Museums I LOVE ♥ !