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Introduction to Accademia Gallery, Florence
What to See at The Accademia Gallery?
Michelangelo's David is one of the most famous exhibits at the Accademia Gallery, which attracts visitors from all across the planet, is Accademia Gallery David, crafted by Michelangelo. Created between 1501 and 1504, this masterpiece stands as a pinnacle of Italian Renaissance sculpture. Towering at a height of 5.17 meters, the statue marks a groundbreaking achievement as the inaugural colossal marble statue in the early modern era, which influenced other works throughout the 16th century. Admire the astonishing lifelike quality of the statue that surpasses anything created in the past with meticulous attention to detail.
Get an insight into Michelangelo's passionate approach to sculpting by exploring the Hall of Prisoners at the Accademia Gallery. This area holds special significance as here you can see how the master creator perceived himself as a liberator, believing that the statues were already trapped within the marble, and his role was to set them free. The "prisoner" statues that are featured here were completed by Michelangelo in 1545. The centerpiece, ‘Moses’ is much smaller than was initially planned, but it continues to remain one of his most notable works.
Visit the stunning Hall of Colossus, one of the most prized areas in the Accademia Gallery that boasts an exquisite collection of artworks. Witness the famous baroque statue by Giambologna called "Rape of the Sabines," which is a remarkable portrayal of a highly significant scene from history.
Admire the Left wall and the Right wall paintings here that feature other renowned works such as Trinity by Alesso Baldovinetti, the Trebbio Altarpiece by Botticelli, and St. Stephen, St. James, and St. Peter by Domenico Ghirlandaio. On the Right wall, you can witness Assumption of the Virgin by Perugino, Resurrection by Raffaellino del Garbo, and Deposition by Filippino Lippi.
The Hall of Musical Instruments in the Accademia Gallery showcases the work of Antonio Stradivari, a 17th-century craftsman whose unmatched musical instruments have endured the test of time. Marvel at the delightful Stradivarius instruments, including a tenor viola and a cello from the Medicean collection, displaying their coat of arms. Do not miss out on the unchanged viola, believed to be the world's most valuable instrument. One of the most notable features here, apart from the historically valuable instruments is the invention of the piano by Bartolomeo Cristofori in 1720, marking a transition from the earlier harpsichord.
Take a short walk from the Accademia Gallery, and explore the fascinating Gipsoteca Bartolini which is a recreation of the workshop of the famous artist Bartolini. Learn more about the 19th-century sculptor, Lorenzo Bartolini who catered to a diverse clientele, including Italians, Russians, and English elites. Here you can primarily see the plaster and clay models he used to create his works as opposed to his finished statues. Once inside, you will encounter an array of busts, statues, and paintings by Bartolini and his students, all of which throw light on the beginnings of sculpting.
Wallow in the beautiful collection from the 13th and 14th centuries of artwork spread across three rooms of the Florentine Gothic Gallery at the Accademia Gallery Florence. Walk down the hallowed aisles exhibiting numerous Gothic altarpieces, each exquisitely gilded with gold. Amid the sheer grandeur and luxury, you can also learn about the Gothic and Byzantine styles from the Middle Ages in the distinct patterns and characteristics in the displayed artworks. The powerful and influential Byzantine Empire heavily influenced Italian art during this era.
Checkout: Accademia Gallery Paintings
Best Selling Guided Tours and Tickets
Access this beautiful world of Renaissance brilliance with the Accademia Gallery skip-the-line tickets. From the magnificence of Michelangelo's iconic David to the captivating realm of Michelangelo's unfinished Prisoners and Giambologna's mesmerizing plaster for the Rape of the Sabine Women, you can witness them all without having to go through the hassles of standing in unending queues for hours.
Go for this walking tour if you are looking to delve deeper into the city’s cultural heritage, as well as incorporate a visit to the Accademia Gallery alongside other iconic landmarks such as the Florence Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria. Walking tours allow you to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere while gaining insights into its art, history, and architecture.
Experience Florence's cultural treasures with our Uffizi & Accademia Gallery tickets that give you a 2-hour artistic journey at Via dei Castellani and its Renaissance masterpieces. Admire the brilliance of renowned artists like Botticelli and da Vinci at the Uffizi Gallery and marvel at the world-famous masterpiece as you get up and close to Michelangelo's David with your Accademia Gallery tickets. These combined tickets offer access to both galleries, with hassle-free entry and provisions for audio guides.
Plan Your Visit to Accademia Gallery
Location:
- The address is Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze or Florence Accademia Gallery, Via Ricasoli, 58/60 50122 Florence, Italy. To understand better where is the Accademia Gallery, it is located in the center of Florence, close to some of the most iconic landmarks, such as the Florence Duomo and Giotto's Bell Tower.
Best Time to Visit:
- The best time of the year to visit the Gallery Accademia in Florence is during the off-peak season, when it sees the least amount of crowds. This is usually from November to March (excluding Christmas).
- During the week, it is best to visit the Accademia Gallery on the weekdays if you wish to steer clear of the large crowds. It is most congested on the weekends as well as on Sundays and Tuesdays.
- For a more peaceful visit, your best options are Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. These days, you will likely encounter fewer crowds, allowing you to immerse yourself in the art and culture displayed at the Accademia Gallery.
- During the day, the best time to visit Accademia Gallery is during the early mornings when the museum opens around 8:15 AM or late evening after 5 PM. This way, you can avoid the crowds and make the most of your exploration.
Opening Hours :
The Accademia Gallery's hours of operation and visit are from Tuesday to Sunday between 8:15 AM and 6:50 PM. The last admission is at 6:20 p.m.
The museum remains closed on Mondays.
The museum is open throughout the year, including all weekday holidays except January 1 and December 25, apart from every Monday.
More on Accademia Gallery Opening Hours >>
Dress Code :
While the Accademia Gallery of Florence maintains no stringent dress code policy, you must be aware of the general dress guidelines that are in place when you visit the city. Since there are several churches here, wear modest clothing that is not too revealing and is in keeping with the city’s cultural sensibilities.
FAQ
What time should I go to the Accademia Gallery?
The best time to visit the Accademia Gallery in Florence is either early in the morning when it opens at 8:15 AM or during the late afternoon after 5 PM. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the artwork with fewer crowds, and visiting in the late afternoon can be a good option if you prefer a quieter experience. It is important to note that the maximum visitors start arriving around 9 AM when it starts to get very crowded.
How long does it take to walk through the Accademia Gallery?
The time it takes to walk through the Accademia Gallery can vary depending on your interests and the crowd levels. On average, visitors spend about 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the gallery. If you are a passionate art lover or want to delve deeply into the works, you may spend longer. The duration of your visit can also vary based on your visit, as less crowded times and guided tours can also affect it.
Is there a dress code for Accademia Gallery?
The Accademia Gallery in Florence does not have a strict dress code. However, it is advisable to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting, as this is a cultural institution. This means avoiding overly revealing or beachwear-style clothing. It is also important to note that if you plan to visit other churches or religious sites in Florence on the same day, they may have stricter dress codes, so dressing modestly can help ensure a smooth experience throughout the city.
Can you buy tickets for the Accademia at the door?
Yes, you can purchase tickets for the Accademia Gallery at the door, as the ticket office at the museum allows for on-site ticket sales. However, during peak tourist seasons, there may be long lines, and it can be more time-efficient to buy tickets in advance on our site. Buying tickets in advance also helps ensure your preferred entry time and can be a convenient option to bypass long waiting times.
What not to miss at Accademia?
When visiting the Accademia Gallery in Florence, some must-see highlights include Michelangelo's iconic "David" sculpture, a true masterpiece. You should also make it a point to see the "Prisoners" and "St. Matthew" sculptures, also by Michelangelo. Explore the musical instrument collection featuring unique pieces. Apart from these, the Museum of Musical Instruments displays historic instruments worth your attention. Do not fail to admire the beautiful paintings and other sculptures that contribute to the rich artistic tapestry of the Accademia Gallery.
Can you take pictures in the Accademia Gallery?
Yes, you can take pictures inside the Accademia Gallery with some restrictions. Photography is allowed, but the use of flash is not permitted as it could damage the works of art. Furthermore, there are areas within the gallery where photography is not allowed, particularly near some more sensitive artworks. Always respect the museum's rules and the art on display, and refrain from using flash photography to preserve the pieces and maintain the atmosphere for all visitors. Consider reading the on-site photography guidelines for a better experience.
Do you need tickets to Galleria Dell Accademia?
Yes, you need tickets to enter the Accademia Gallery Firenze. Tickets are required for admission and can be purchased in advance online or at the museum's ticket office. It is a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long lines and ensure your visit goes smoothly.
How far apart are Uffizi and Accademia?
The Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery are located relatively close to each other in Florence. They are approximately a 15-minute walk apart, with a distance of about 1 kilometre between them. This proximity makes it convenient for visitors to explore both museums on the same day if desired, allowing you to immerse yourself in a wide range of art and cultural experiences in Florence.