Night by Michelangelo

Night by Michelangelo in the Medici Chapels in Florence

Guiliano (1478-1516), Duke of Nemours and brother of Pope Leo X, is portrayed by Michelangelo as a military captain in the New Sacristy of San Lorenzo. He is flanked by the reclining statue of Day โ€” a powerful male with an unfinished face โ€” and Night, a young sleeping woman with a head inspired by classic Greek sculptures.

The group monument in the Medici Chapels is undergoing cleaning and restoration work.

About the Author

Henk Bekker is a European travel writer specializing in transportation, cultural destinations, and practical travel advice for visitors to Europe. His work focuses on clear, up-to-date guides that simplify complex travel systems such as public transportation, tickets, and routes.