Masterpiece

Psalm 23: The Lord of my Shephard, I shall not want...

Even if you aren't a lover of painting or sculpture, one cannot help but be moved by this depiction of King David as a shepherd boy, armed for battle. We've all seen this picture of the sculpture, but an in-person view provides details incomprehensible considering its date.

The sling falls delicately against the curve of his back; he cups the stone in his right hand. His hands are veined like real men's.

This. picture. does. not. do. The David. justice.

When I walked into the Galleria dell Academia and turned that first left, I was nearly led to tears. Yes, tears. I cannot say anything that will woo you to the awe I felt, standing there with mouth wide open and so I won't try.

If you ever visit Florence, this must be at the top of your list followed by whatever else your heart desires. Nothing else in this city compares in my opinion.

A replica stands outside of the Palazzo Vecchio in Piazza Senoria. Don't be among the swarm of tourists happily snapping pictures at a treasure they think they've seen. No. 

The real treasure stands alone in the back of the corridor, governed by a dome far exceeding its 17ft in height, quietly aware of its beauty, calmly requesting no pictures be taken.