Michelangelo: A Detailed Biography

Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475–1564) — sculptor, painter, architect, and poet — is widely regarded as the greatest artist of the Italian Renaissance and one of the most influential figures in Western art. His masterpieces David, the Pietà, and the Sistine Chapel ceiling continue to awe millions. This biography traces his life, major works, and enduring legacy, as documented by the Encyclopaedia Britannica, the Vatican Museums, and the Galleria dell’Accademia.

Early Life and Training

Birth and Florence

Born on March 6, 1475, in Caprese, Michelangelo grew up in Florence under the patronage of Lorenzo de’ Medici. At 13 he entered the workshop of Domenico Ghirlandaio, then studied antique sculpture in the Medici gardens, as documented by the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Early Masterpieces in Rome and Florence

The Pietà (1498–1499)

At age 24, Michelangelo carved the breathtaking Pietà for St. Peter’s Basilica — the only work he ever signed (across Mary’s sash) after overhearing someone attribute it to another artist, as preserved by the Vatican.

David (1501–1504)

The 17-foot marble giant, carved from a flawed block others had abandoned, symbolized Florence’s defiance against larger enemies. Originally placed in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, it is now in the Accademia Gallery.

The Sistine Chapel Ceiling (1508–1512)

Pope Julius II forced a reluctant Michelangelo to paint the vault of the Sistine Chapel. Working almost alone on scaffolding for four grueling years, he created over 300 figures across 5,000 square feet — including the iconic Creation of Adam. He later returned (1536–1541) to paint The Last Judgment on the altar wall, as preserved in the official Vatican restoration records.

Architecture and Later Sculptures

St. Peter’s Basilica and the Laurentian Library

From 1546 until his death, Michelangelo served as chief architect of St. Peter’s, designing the soaring dome that dominates Rome’s skyline, as documented by the St. Peter’s Basilica official site. He also created the revolutionary Laurentian Library staircase and vestibule in Florence.

Late Pietàs and Unfinished Works

In his final decades he carved deeply emotional, unfinished sculptures such as the Rondanini Pietà, now in Milan — works that reveal his growing spiritual intensity.

Personal Life

Michelangelo never married and had no children. He lived frugally, often sleeping in his studio. His closest relationships were intense friendships with noblemen like Tommaso de’ Cavalieri and the widowed poet Vittoria Colonna. He wrote hundreds of passionate poems and letters, many published only after his death.

Death and Legacy

Michelangelo’s Enduring Impact

Michelangelo died on February 18, 1564, in Rome at age 88, still sketching days before. His body was secretly taken to Florence and buried in Santa Croce. His revolutionary treatment of the human form, emotional depth, and fusion of sculpture, painting, and architecture defined the High Renaissance and influenced generations from Rubens to Rodin and beyond, as celebrated by the Casa Buonarroti Museum and the Smithsonian Magazine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Michelangelo

Why Is Michelangelo Famous?

For the Sistine Chapel ceiling, the statue of David, the Pietà, and being the defining genius of the High Renaissance.

How Long Did Michelangelo Take to Paint the Sistine Chapel Ceiling?

Four intense years (1508–1512), working almost alone on scaffolding.

Where Was Michelangelo Born?

Caprese, near Florence, Italy, on March 6, 1475.

How Tall Is Michelangelo’s David?

17 feet (5.17 metres), carved from a single block of Carrara marble.

Did Michelangelo Consider Himself a Painter or Sculptor?

Sculptor first — he accepted the Sistine ceiling reluctantly and signed letters “Michelangelo, sculptor.”

What Is the Pietà?

His marble masterpiece (1498–1499) of Mary holding the dead Christ — the only work he ever signed.

How Did Michelangelo Die?

February 18, 1564, in Rome at age 88, after a brief illness, still working days before.