Accademia Gallery

Your journey through the Accademia Gallery starts with the Hall of the Colossus. It earned its name from a plaster-cast model of the Dioscuri of Montecavallo, a colossal ancient statue that dates back to the 19th century. While the original statue is no longer present, the real star of the show here is Giambologna's extraordinary sculpture, the Rape of the Sabines, which depicts a gripping mythical scene and attracts visitors from around the world. Surrounded by masterpieces by Renaissance masters like Perugino and Botticelli, this gallery offers a captivating experience, immersing you in the artistry and brilliance of the era.

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During your visit to the Accademia Gallery, you will also come across the Hall of the Prisoners, which offers an intimate encounter with Michelangelo’s unfinished sculptures. These include the Awakening Slave, Atlas, Bearded Slave, and Young Slave, all of which are a testament to this artist’s distinct style. These large nude figures, appearing as if struggling to free themselves from the marble, create a poignant image of eternal struggle. Originally, the room was built to house classic paintings, but the space was later dedicated to Michelangelo’s sculptures, providing an unparalleled glimpse into the artist's extraordinary talent and the sculptural process itself.

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The Tribune is home to the iconic David by Michelangelo, a sculpture that's influenced generations of artists and stood as a symbol of the power and resilience of the human spirit. The room's domed ceiling and marble walls present David in a theatrical manner, allowing visitors to admire the statue from different angles, making it a unique interactive experience. The dynamic setting of the Tribune serves as a fitting stage for this worldwide symbol of strength and beauty. Prepare to be awestruck as you enter the illustrious Tribune, one of the top-visited rooms at the Accademia Gallery. This iconic chamber is home to one of the most famous sculptures in history: Michelangelo's David. The sculpture was moved here in the 1850s, where it has remained ever since. With its domed ceiling and marble walls, the Tribune creates a dramatic setting for the masterpiece, allowing you to admire every exquisite detail of this unparalleled work of art from all angles. Along with David, you can also marvel at works by artists such as Allori, Bronzino, Cecchino and Salviati in this hall. 

Step into the Gipsoteca Bartolini, a hall dedicated to the exceptional 19th-century plaster casts by renowned artists Lorenzo Bartolini and Luigi Pampaloni. This hall has been a part of the gallery since the year 1784 and is one place where you can immerse yourself in the artistry of the time as you marvel at the intricate details and technical skill evident in these remarkable casts. The hall also houses a collection of paintings and sculptures awarded by the esteemed Academy of Fine Arts of Florence, further enriching your exploration of the artistic heritage showcased within the Accademia Gallery. It is here where you can see how Florentine art evolved to Romanticism from New Classicism.

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The gallery is the last hall located on the ground floor of the gallery and consists of three rooms, which house a collection of Florentine Gothic art, comprising paintings and sculptures from the 13th to the early 14th centuries. These include works of the Grotesque painters, as well as Orcagna and his brothers, and give you a chance to explore the artistic style and religious themes of the time, providing a comprehensive understanding of Florence’s cultural and artistic evolution during the Middle Ages. You can also discover the works of Giotto’s followers in this hall, in addition to artworks by artists like Andrea, Nardo, Matteo and Jacopo di Cione.

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The gallery's tribute to music is the Museum of Musical Instruments, which showcases about 50 ancient instruments from the Grand Ducal Collection. Here, you can trace the evolution of musical instruments, featuring a variety of wind, string, and harpsichord instruments, including a prototype of the piano. From wind instruments to strings and harpsichords, you can immerse yourself in the rich sounds and craftsmanship of these historical treasures in this hall. This display offers a sonic history lesson, presenting an understanding of the musical culture of the Medici family, and how music was intertwined with daily life in Renaissance Florence.

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You can also explore Pacino's Room while you are in the Accademia Gallery, which is the first of the three chambers in the Tribune's left wing, dedicated to Florentine Gothic and Renaissance paintings from the 14th to the 16th centuries. During your visit, you can admire the captivating Tree of Life by Bonaguida and be enthralled by the works of 14th-century followers of Giotto, including Bernardo Daddi's grand Crucifix. Additionally, two remarkable pieces by Taddeo Gaddi portray Scenes from the Life of Christ and St. Francis of Assisi in this hall. Each painting within this room offers a glimpse into the religious narratives and artistic expressions prevalent during this time period, inviting contemplation and appreciation.

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The Orcagna’s Room is the best way to conclude your artistic journey through the Accademia Gallery. This final chamber showcases the work of the di Cione brothers, including Andrea, Nardo, Matteo, and the renowned Jacopo di Cione, also known as "Orcagna." The room hosts several altarpieces, including Jacopo di Cione's Coronation of the Virgin, which was commissioned by the magistrates of the Mint, and reflects the sacred artistry of the time. The room is also known for housing several small gilded works of art, all of which depict various scenes from the Bible, and include biblical figures and saints. 

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