Mikey's David

Okay, so just like the title may have told you, we went and saw Michelangelo's David today for art class. When I first saw the David, my initial reaction was: "Wow! It's so big!" I didn't expect the David to be so large. It is not a My-Sized-David like I'd imagined. No, it's like three, maybe four times my size. I mean, David is huge! Very tall. Definitely not what I expected. His hands are also out of proportion with the rest of his body. We were told that before he was moved to the Academia, his left hand was cracked during the 3rd republic of the Medici's but was restored and then moved. Also, in 1991, a crazy man with a hammer attacked the feet of David. That too was restored and resulted in increased security in the Academia.

The rest of the Academia was interesting to see as well. There was a wing that held musical instruments. Violin, pianos, and cellos were displayed, some really old. Another part of the museum showed plaster models of marble sculptures. It was interesting to see the rough work that comes before the original masterpiece. There was also an assortment of different paintings that were from the "School of" different artists. We saw the original crucifixes, etc. of Cimabue and Giotto and here were the artists that studied from these masters.

Before going to the Academia, we went and got our tickets for Cinque Terre. We're leaving on the 11:57 train to La Spezia were we will have to get on another train to Monterosso al Mare, where our hotel is. I cannot wait to get away from Florence for a while. It's great being here, don't get me wrong, but I need to see other things.

Ania got confirmation today about our apartment in Krakow. It is an Art Apartment, kind of like a studio apartment. Here is the description from the site: Filled with contemporary art by two of Krakow's brightest young talents, this classic Krakow apartment is located on an attractive square that's right next door to the palace which houses the Wyspianski Museum, making it an ideal location for artists and art lovers. The flat comes with shower and coffee/tea facilities, rounded off by a wonderful view over the Old Theatre. The two main rooms would be ideal for a couple or a young family. (http://www.krakow-apartments.com/Krakow-flats/apartment-info/30-Art)

It is located just around the corner from the main Market Square. We are being offered this apartment for 2400 PLN total, including bills. The price also includes linens, towels and cleaning once a week.

Ania is getting back to them about a few things and with the change in the dates she originally told them but it looks like we have a place to stay when we get to Poland. Still looking for a way from Prague to Krakow but we're on top of that as well. I must go now because I have to pack for this weekend and call home. Ciao!