Today we have a tour of the Academia Gallery, the museum that The David lives. It has caused a lot of controversy in Florida recently, as a teacher was fired because she taught a class about the statue. This is considered pornography by some in the state. So, needless to say that since this controversy I NEEDED to see this work of art!
On our way to the Gallery we pass this little wine bar. There are 2 seats in the alleyway and a main entrance at the front in the main street. Very cool. We should see if we can find it again and have a seat at the stools and order from the little window.
Inside the Academia there is a music section. Here we see this violin created by Stratovarius for the Medici family. It bears their family crest on the front of it. A very rate piece.
Our guide points out a self portrait of Michelangelo on display here. This gallery does not have as many masterpieces as the Uffizi Gallery. The David is the main attraction here. There are also practice pieces that are unfinished. This one is of Atlas, the world on his shoulders was never complelted.
We end the tour portion of our visit with The David! It is a stunning work. Apparently 30 years ago someone came into the gallery with some sort of metal tool. They wanted a piece of The David. They did some hacking of the toes on his left foot. As you can see the toes are damaged. There is a replica of the David in front of the City Hall of Florence. His toes are perfect. I have photos of both feet.
The eyes of the David are actually hearts. It is difficult to see from down below, but there are photos in the gift shop that show the pupils as hearts. The David is the most popular attraction in this museum. We bought a tour that bypassed the lineups. It is extremely busy outside as we leave. Very happy we purchased the tour and bypassed the lines!
It is almost sunset, so we head to the Ponte Vecchio. This translates to The Old Bridge. It was somehow spared by the Nazi army as they left Florence. They destroyed every other bridge in Florence with the exception of the Ponte Vecchio. During the day the jewelry shops line the bridge. Tonight they are all closed with ornate wooden panels that cover the glass and jewerly.
Many people are gathered here to see the sunset. We had planned to move to the bridge immediately to the west of the Ponte Vecchio in order to get a photo with the sun on the bridge. About halfway there, I turned to see the gorgeous sun shinning on the bridge. I took the shot. It is stunning. I am certain Stu was whispering in my ear to “take it now, take it now”!! By the time we reached the next bridge the sun was behind some clouds, the shot was gone. So glad I was able to get this “Stu Shot”.
We found a lovely spot to leave some of Stu. Along the Arno River with a view to the Ponte Vecchio. Another beautiful spot to rest.
We wandered through the streets again. We came upon this beautiful church. The stained glass windows, the fresco paintings. Everything in Florence is a work of art!
We head back to our little apartment. There is this restaurant right next door. The aromas wafting into our window is simply incredible. We had dinner there the other night, it was amazing. If you come to Florence definitely check this place out!!
Back in our apartment we lock the ancient door. No one will be getting through this locking system!
Another day to remember forever!!