Italian pics (7th installment)

Here are the pictures of the Michelangelo library, otherwise known as the Laurentian Library. This was a surprise find for me. Andreas wanted to go and see the San Lorenzo Basilica because it was the Medici family church (in other words it had nothing to do with God and everything to do with power). I have to say the most interesting part of that Basilica was the library. Now don't get me wrong the church had many amazing pieces of art and a few sculptures by Michelangelo's teacher, but I really enjoyed the old books they had on display (works of art in themselves) and to stand in a room where not only did some of the greatest artists in the world come to learn, but one of the greatest artist created it and thought it through. Very cool, they just don't build things like that anymore.

Enjoy.

Their cataloging system.

Andreas in the entrance. Michelangelo did finish the library because he was called to Rome. I cannot remember the name of the man who did finish it now. That could be something for you readers to look up ;) I really like the contrast between the stone of the entrance and the warm wood in the library.

One thing that I was amazed at was the fact the the ceiling, which was made of carved wood, mirrored the floor with was made of colored marble. Very talented !!!!!!

Unfortunately, the sides of the floor are covered with carpet so the tourists don't dirty the floor (like that silly Swedish tourist in the picture). But you can still see the center of the mirrored ceiling in the floor. Also the benches make desks, so you can see that many people could study there at the same time.

The contemplative Swede.