Expert: Michelangelo's David at risk

FLORENCE, Italy, Sept. 20 (UPI) -- A restoration expert warns the statue of David created by Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo is at risk of falling apart.

Antonio Borri, a Perugia University professor of construction engineering, cited the reappearance of previously repaired cracks as the basis for his concern, The Times of London reported Saturday.

Among the potential causes for the cracks' reappearance since the statue's 2004 restoration is the presence of a large number of visitors to the Galleria dell Accademia in Florence, Italy, where the statue is displayed.

Despite Borri's concern, Florence museums head Cristina Acidini says the statue is safe and being monitored on a regular basis to prevent any structural problems.

While vibrations from nearby traffic and other sources also have been tabbed as a potential cause of the cracks, Acidini told the Times only an earthquake in the city would pose a significant risk.

"But in that case the museum itself would be at risk, together with much of Florence's artistic heritage," she said regarding a possible temblor.