Known for Michelangelo's original statue of David (the replica stands in Piazza della Signoria), the Accademia Gallery houses several examples of the famous sculpturer's work, along with other important Gothic sculptures and Renaissance paintings by Botticelli, Ghirlandaio and Perugino. Particular pieces of interest from the Michelangelo collection include 'Saint Matthew' and the four incomplete statues entitled the 'Prisoners' or 'Slaves'; these aside his David steals centre stage.
Created between 1501 and 1504, the 14-feet infamous statue depicts biblical hero David in gleaming white marble, with his sling slung over his shoulder moments before his battle with Goliath. Said to be Michelangelo's finest piece of work, the statue was originally placed in Piazza della Signoria until 1873 where it was moved into the gallery to preserve it from further weather damage.
Other important pieces not to be missed include the 'Rape of Sabine Women' by Giambologna in the Hall of the Colossus. This original plaster model of the famous statue is significant for the creation of three figures from a single large block of marble. More recent displays include the museum of musical instruments which see one of a kind pieces including models by Bartolomeo Cristofori - inventor of the piano.
With a vast collection, and in particular the statue of David providing a must-see, the gallery can get very busy and queues can be long so pre-booking is highly recommended.
Opening hours: Daily (excluding Mondays, January 1st, May 1st and December 25th) 8:15am - 6:50pm.
Prices: €16 per adult. Entry is free for the first Sunday of every month and tickets cannot be pre-booked.
