Watch: Expo 2020 Dubai's Italy Pavilion unveils Michelangelo replica

A three-dimensional replica of Michelangelo’s world-famous David sculpture has been revealed at Expo 2020 Dubai’s Italy Pavilion.

The five metre-high work was finished by hand but involved the latest creative tech methods.

The original sixteenth-century marble piece in Florence underwent 40 hours of digital scanning to make a model for one of the world’s largest 3D printers.

It was revealed at an official ceremony to mark the completion of the Italy Pavilion’s exterior, attended by several dignitaries including the Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio, Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Cabinet Member, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and Commissioner General of Expo 2020 Dubai, and Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General, Expo 2020 Dubai.

The Pavilion's theme is "Beauty connects People" and is located in Expo’s Opportunity District. 

Luigi Di Maio 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."

A spectacular 3D replica of Michelangelo’s world-famous David sculpture has been installed at the centre of the Italy Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai (@ItalyExpo2020) – a cultural highlight of the next World Expo. pic.twitter.com/e09TwZYG5t

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 27, 2021