From sanitizing to standing afar, Italy's museum shows how art lovers embrace the new normal
Re-opened after three months
The Uffizi Galleries, the most-visited museum in Italy, is open after three months of COVID-19 lockdown.
Maximum capacity of 450
The reopening rules state that only 450 people at one time are allowed in the Uffizi's many galleries.
Visitors rejoice
A maximum capacity of 450 visitors has, at some level, made the visitors happy, as this means visitors no longer have to elbow their way to admire masterpieces.
Museum fears loss
Uffizi director Eike Schmidt told The Associated Press on Wednesday that the government-ordered closure of museums during coronavirus containment measures meant 1 million fewer visitors and 12 million euros ($13.2 million) in less revenue for that period.
No obstacles
Visitors feel crowds were an obstacle and distraction. They are able to observe the masterpieces better now.
Compulsory temperature checks
All the visitors are going through temperature checks before starting the museum tour.
Sanitizers installed in the museum
Hand sanitizing machines have also been installed at various points in the museum, to help the visitors stay sanitized, and thus contain the spread of the virus.
Sitting at distance
Separate benches and chairs have been installed in the museum at pre-decided distance, to make sure there is no crowding done and people can rest their feet when needed.
Social distancing
People have been asked to voluntarily maintain distance while observing the masterpieces.
Feel the emotions behind the masterpieces
Without being surrounded by rushing crowds, art lovers can better "feel these emotions that these works of art always transmit," said Uffizi director Eike Schmidt.
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