The first part of this adventure is focused on Michelangelo – after all, he was from Florence and some of his early works are here. On the first day, we gathered together to get to know the other participants, formally meet Elaine Ruffolo and Ross King before heading out for our first walking tour.
After a short walking tour which took us past the Palazzo Vecchio with the statue of David (the original is in the Uffici) and Hercules and Cacus standing guard at the entrance. Of course, there are a lot of other statues in the Square along with a lovely fountain.
Eventually, we found our way to Casa Buonarroti. This house-museum was purchased by Michelangelo and is where his descendants lived. Michelangelo was born in Caprese in the province of Arezzo, when his father Ludovico di Leonardo, although Florentine, had moved there to hold a public office. It is not the only residence owned by Michelangelo in the city, there were more than one, but this one was bought by him in 1508.
Michelangelo never married or had any children and his heirs were from his brother and his children. His grand-nephew was the major person to transform the property from a humble home to a tribute to his great Uncle – Michelangelo.
This museum and monument, is a place of memory and celebration of the genius of Michelangelo. There are two early carved masterpieces of Michelangelo’s from his youth – the Madonna of the Stairs and the Battle of the Centaurs. The house has a number of writings, sketches and other works by Michelangelo.
One of the pieces in the museum is the model Michelangelo had made of his design for the front of Basilica of San Lorenzo. His plan was to be done in marble with many statues. Unfortunately, while the plan was generally accepted, he could never get approval or funding to proceed. This was one of his greatest disappointments.
This was just the first day of our adventure and it was a fitting beginning to appreciate Michelangelo the great artist, sculpture and architect.
I’m thoroughly enjoying your blog and travels. Just to mention: Your photo links are broken and photos are not appearing.
Jenny, sometimes the photos take longer to load – they are all there. Try reopening the link.
A fabulous article about Michango and his works of art . Loved Florence !