Standing 35 feet tall over the ground of the Villa di Pratolino in Tuscany, Italy is the famous Appennine Colossus statue. Built in 1581 by renowned Italian sculptor Giambologna (Giovanni da Bologna) as a symbol of Italy’s rugged Appenine mountains, this magnificent creation seems to emerge from the vaulted rockwork niche that once surrounded him. The interior hides several rooms with different functions that made this colossus come to life. The creature in his left hand poured water from an underground stream, and it is rumored that space in his head was made for a fireplace which, when lit, would blow smoke out of his nostrils. ................................................................................................................................................................... #art #photography #sculpture #nature #education