May 02, 2014
By Michael Kramer
One of the world’s iconic marble statues is at risk of collapse – because of weak ankles.
Michalangelo’s David has some micro fractures in it’s lower leg sections
Italian researchers have been keeping track of the problem – which was first noticed back in the mid-19th century.
They’ve been observing David’s ankles and lower trunk area and a recent report says tiny cracks threaten to topple the entire 5.17 meter high masterpiece – displayed in Florence since 1873.
Vibrations from tourists, nearby trains and occasional mild earthquakes are thought to have damaged David over time.
The magnificent work is now more than 500 years old.
It was exposed to the elements for more than 350 years in a Florentine piazza – before being moved indoors.
Past efforts to repair fractures on the towering statue have failed and experts have long urged authorities to move David to a specially designed facility to ensure his safety.
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