The Leicester Code of Leonardo da Vinci. The Water Microscope of Nature, Galleria degli Uffizi, 29 October 2018-20 January 2019

500 years is something of a milestone death anniversary, and when it’s for the visionary da Vinci, it calls for a year-long celebration. To kick off, we have an exhibition centered around the Leicester Codex. On loan from its current owner, Bill Gates, the Codex is a 72-page manuscript filled with da Vinci’s notes and observations on geology, mechanics, and the environment. Comparing his ideas to those scientifically accepted today, he actually provided elementary descriptions of phenomenon like earthshine and plate tectonics. However, his main focus was the flow of water and how it changed when obstacles were put in its way. Based on his observations, he suggested designs for bridges and how to combat erosion.

Written between 1504-1508, the Codex is now very delicate, so you can leaf through it using the “Codescope”, a multimedia device that lets you look at transcripts of the manuscript and provides more information on his ideas. The exhibition also displays some of his drawings from the same period.

Galleria Degli Uffizi

6 Piazzale degli Uffizi, 50122, Florence

Opening Times

Tuesday-Sunday, 8.15-18.50

Last entry 18.35

Ticket office closes 18.05