Florence stands as a remarkable city, celebrated for its profound historical significance and cultural wealth as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. This compact UNESCO World Heritage site, though home to only 366,000 residents, faces the immense challenge of hosting approximately 11 million tourists annually. Balancing the preservation of its historical dignity with the demands of both permanent residents and transient tourists presents a formidable task.
Tourism undoubtedly plays a crucial role in the city’s economy, but the prevailing issue lies in the fleeting nature of many visitors’ stays. Numerous tourists rush through, snapping selfies at iconic landmarks like Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Primavera, without truly engaging with the city’s essence. This superficial interaction contributes little while disproportionately burdening the city.
As the director of the Galleria dell’Accademia since 2015, I have not only fought to safeguard the integrity of Michelangelo’s David from commercial misuse but have also sought remedies for the broader challenges of over-tourism. Recognizing that we cannot expand the physical space of the city, we focused on enhancing how the museum serves both the local community and the multitude of visitors.
Initially, we reintroduced the museum to local residents, who had come to view it merely as a tourist attraction, by organizing inclusive events and offering free entry on the first Sunday of each month. We also formed an “association of friends” to foster a broader connection between the museum and the global community.
Our efforts extended to improving the quality of the visitor experience. We implemented changes to prevent tourists from merely rushing to David and then leaving, which mirrored the broader pattern of city tourism. We reorganized the museum layout, enhanced the display of various artworks, and improved visitor flow and comfort with modern lighting and air conditioning.
These measures have significantly altered the visitor experience. Now, not only is David a focal point, but other artworks also receive the attention they deserve. Group sizes have been reduced to ensure a more personal and enjoyable visit, and extended opening hours during peak seasons have helped manage visitor influx more effectively.
Our strategic approach has paid off, with a 42% increase in museum visits from 2015 to 2023, topping over 2 million annual visitors for the first time last year. These visitors now include a higher number of locals and younger people, drawn by the more engaging and accessible museum environment.
The transformation at the Galleria dell’Accademia serves as a microcosm for Florence itself. By adopting strategies such as slower tours, smaller groups, and improved signage, we can manage tourism more sustainably. This not only benefits the museum but also the city at large, preserving its rich heritage for future generations. While my influence ends at the museum’s doors, these initiatives demonstrate how thoughtful management of tourism can profoundly benefit both cultural institutions and their cities.
