In Michelangelo's Steps

The Casa Buonarroti

In 1508 Michelangelo bought this house and passed it on to his descendents. In 1609 Michelangelo Bounarroti the Younger purchased adjoining houses and in 1612 work began to turn the house into a palace to serve as a museum to his uncle. The museum includes many early works of the artist as well as Madonna of the Stairs and Battle of the Centaurs.

Hours of Operation: 9:30-2:00 for temporary exhibits, and 9:30–4:00. Closed Tuesdays and January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, August 15, and December 25.
Admission: $5-$10
Address: Via Ghibellina 70 501 22 Firenze
Phone: 055-241752

Galleria dell’Accademia

The museum is home to Michelangelo’s original statue of David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world. Other sculptures as well as a number of other works by the artist are also housed here.

Hours of Operation: Monday 8:15am – 2:00pm, Tuesday – Sunday 8:15am – 7:15pm, Closed January 1, May 1, & December 25.
Address: Campo della Carita Dorsoduro n. 1050 - Venice
Phone: +39 041 520 0345

The Sistine Chapel

Built between 1477 and 1481 the Sistine Chapel is one of the most popular attractions in Rome. Pope Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to paint the ceiling in 1508. Today the ceiling has been restored and visitors can enjoy the view of the ceiling as well as Michelangelo’s Last Judgment on the altar wall. The chapel is typically crowded so getting in line early in the morning so you are one of the first people in is recommended. No photos are permitted and silence should be observed.

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 8:45am – 4:45pm, Saturday 8:45am – to 1:45om
Admission: $10-$15
Address: Vatican Palace, Viale del Vaticano, Rome, Italy
Phone: +39 068 530 1758

Basilica of Santa Croce

Building of the Gothic masterpiece, Santa Croce, began in 1294. It is the largest Franciscan church in Italy and is the final resting place of many important Florentines including Michelangelo.

Hours of Operation: Monday – Saturday 9:30-5:30, Sunday 1:00-5:30
Admission: $5-$10
Address: Piazza Santa Croce, Florence, Tuscany 50122
Phone: +39 055244619

St Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)

Located in Vatican City St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest Christian Basilica in the world. The original Basilica had been built in the area when St. Peter had been martyred for his faith. The plans for the dome were Michelangelo’s. He died before seeing the project to completion. However, it was completed according to his drawings. The Basilica houses many works of art including Michelangelo’s Pieta.

Hours of Operation: 24 hours
Admission: $5-$10
Address: Piazza San Pietro Rome, Rome 00193
Phone: +39 6 48 8991