Must-sees: Cappella degli Scrovegni (Scrovegni Chapel, famous for a fresco cycle by Giotto, completed about 1305 and considered to be one of the most important masterpieces of Western art) Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua (one of the biggest churches in the world; one of the most visited places of pilgrimage; one of the 8 international shrines recognized by […]
Italy
The Royal Museums of Turin (2/2) – The Sabauda Gallery, Archaeological Museum and Royal Gardens
In my previous post I talked about the Royal Palace (including the Royal Armoury), the Holy Shroud Chapel and the Royal Library of the Royal Museums of Turin. In this post, I’ll introduce to you the rest of the complex, that is to say, the Royal Gardens, the Sabauda Gallery, and the Archaeological Museum. 1. The […]
The Royal Museums of Turin (1/2) – The Royal Palace, Holy Shroud Chapel and Royal Library
1. Outstanding Universal Value (What does the UNESCO say about the property? Why is it worth your visit?) 2. Practical information 2.1 The complex 2.2 Ticket prices 2.3 Opening hours 2.4 Suggested length of visit and recommended route 2.5 Other important information and tips 3. The Royal Palace 3.1 The Grand Staircase 3.2 Hall of the […]
Venice – Gallerie dell’Accademia (2)
On 3rd December 2017, I visited the Gallerie dell’Accademia in Venice for the first time, during which unfortunately an extensive restoration was being carried out. The project, which aims at reinforcing, renovating and refurbishing the first floor of the museum, started on 7th June 2017 and will last for 960 days. It will be divided into […]
Modena Cathedral Complex (3/3) – Piazza Grande & Municipal Balsamic Vinegar Factory
In my previous two posts, I introduced in detail Modena Cathedral including its exterior and interior decorations by Wiligelmo and his workshop and by the Campionesi masters; Ghirlandina Bell Tower including its construction history, decorations and various chambers; the Cathedral Museums where eight metopes, which were originally located on the buttresses of the cathedral’s roof and portray various […]
Modena Cathedral Complex (2/3) – Torre Civica & Palazzo Comunale
In my previous post about Modena Cathedral Complex, I focused on the cathedral itself including its history and decorations both outside and inside. Besides, I mentioned some of the most precious items among the Cathedral Museums‘ collections. For example, the eight metopes, which were originally located on the buttresses of the cathedral’s roof depicting fantastic creatures, […]
Modena Cathedral Complex (1/3) – Cathedral & Cathedral Museum
As the UNESCO comments: The magnificent 12th-century cathedral at Modena, the work of two great artists (Lanfranco and Wiligelmus), is a supreme example of early Romanesque art. With its piazza and soaring tower, it testifies to the faith of its builders and the power of the Canossa dynasty who commissioned it. 摩德纳的大教堂、市民塔和大广场: 位于摩德纳的宏伟的12世纪大教堂,是兰弗兰科(Lanfranco)和威利盖尔茨(Wiligelmus)这两位伟大艺术家的杰作,是早期罗马风格艺术的最杰出典范。这所大教堂和与之相配套的宏大广场以及耸入云霄的高塔一起,不但证实了建造者们对皇室的无限忠诚,而且还体现了命令建造这些建筑的卡诺萨王朝的非凡国力。 In order […]
Milan – Pinacoteca & Biblioteca Ambrosiana (3/3)
In my previous post, I introduced to you in detail Leonardo da Vinci‘s “Portrait of a Musician“, Giovanni Ambrogio de Predis’ “Lady with a Pearl Hairnet“, and Jan Brueghel the Elder‘s “Vase of Flowers with Jewelry, Coins and Shells“. For the fans of Leonardo, I also talked about Il Vespino‘s copy of the master’s “The Last Supper” and Salaì, whose life […]
Milan – Pinacoteca & Biblioteca Ambrosiana (2/3)
Previously, in my first post about the Ambrosian Art Gallery, I explained in detail two masterpieces, that is to say, the “Basket of Fruit” by Caravaggio (in the library) and the “Preparatory Cartoon of the School of Athens” by Raphael (in Room 5). Taking the opportunity, I also talked about Raphael’s (most) famous fresco “The […]
Milan – Pinacoteca & Biblioteca Ambrosiana (1/3)
In total, I visited the Pinacoteca and Biblioteca Ambrosiana (Ambrosian Art Gallery and Library) twice in two years and during my first visit, I only focused on the absolutely highlights such as the original “Preparatory Cartoon of the School of Athens” by Raphael, “The Portrait of a Musician” by Leonardo da Vinci, “The Portrait of a Woman” […]