The Galleria dell'Accademia is one of the Florence's top museums, chiefly because it is home to Michelangelo's David sculpture. The master artist's world famous statue of David is the highlight of an extensive collection of Italian art.
History
In 1784, Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo founded the Accademia di Belle Arti, Florence's Fine Arts Academy, and the adjoining Galleria dell'Accademia. For the gallery's collection, the Grand Duke amassed Tuscan (mostly Florentine) works to serve as examples for the student's of the Academy to study. Over the years, the Accademia acquired many drawings, painting, and sculptures dating from the 13th to the 16th centuries, including works by Botticelli, Pontormo, Giambologna, and Lorenzo Monaco.
The Accademia's most famous work of art, Michelangelo's David, was moved here in 1873 to protect it from the elements. The beautiful, yet imposing, David had once stood outside the Palazzo Vecchio, and was the de facto symbol of Florence. So it was imperative that the Accademia provide a gallery worthy of such an important piece of Florence's heritage. Architect Emilio de Fabris was hired to design a tribuna, a special wing for the prized statue. From 2003-2004, museum conservators gave David a thorough cleaning, restoring the Carrara marble to perfection.
In addition to the David, the Accademia's other Michelangelo works are his portrayal of St. Matthew, acquired in 1906, and the Four Prisoners, which were acquired in 1909. Over the 20th century, the Accademia also grew to include a Department of Musical Instruments, which contains precious musical instruments from the adjacent Cherubini Conservatory.
Continue to What to See at the Galleria dell'Accademia for an in-depth look at the exhibits and information about how to visit the Accademia Gallery.