The Italy Pavilion at Expo 2020 in Dubai has created a 3D printed version of Michelangelo’s world-famous David sculpture, and placed at the centre of the pavilion.
The creation of the sculpture took over 40 hours of digitally scanning the original which was made in the 16th century in Florence.
Artists and innovators then printed the sculpture with one of the world's largest 3D printers. The final touches to the sculpture were carried out by hand.
The sculpture was unveiled at the ceremony marking the competition to the exterior of the Italy Pavilion.
Luigi Di Maio, Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said, “Italy and the UAE have long enjoyed a close relationship, based on the solid foundations of shared visions and interests, including innovation and culture. As the hosts of the most recent World Expo in Milan, in 2015, Italy recognises the significance of Expo 2020 as an important opportunity for cultural exchange, knowledge sharing and the formation of new and fruitful connections. We look forward to welcoming the world to the Italy Pavilion later this year, to enjoy an unprecedented journey through our country’s extraordinary past, present and future.”
The Italy Pavilion is located at the Opportunity District and from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022, visitors from around the world will be able to visit Expo 2020.