Florence

Located in Italy, Florence is the city of stonecutters, whose very streets are paved with such craftsmanship they outdo the architecture of other places. The city is replete with pietra serena, the serene, easily-workable stone from the surrounding mountains. The duomo, perhaps the most visible symbol of the start of the Renaissance, overlooks the city.

Rome

A city of ancient glory. Under various popes, the city is given varying amounts of attention. The city is cannibalizing itself as old buildings are sacrificed to build new, but ancient works of art are also being recovered from excavations in the city. The Vatican, the seat of Catholicism, is contained within Rome.

Marble

Marble of all types appears throughout the novel and throughout Michelangelo’s life. White, pink, blue; hard and soft. Michelangelo finds release in carving marble, which he feels is unparalleled in its ability to express the beauty...