Michelangelo, the renowned Italian artist, sculptor, and architect, died on February 18, 1564, at the age of 88. His passing came after a long and prolific life dedicated to the arts, during which he created some of the most famous works in Western history, including the Statue of David and the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
The cause of Michelangelo’s death is believed to be the result of a combination of factors related to his age and declining health. Historical records suggest that he suffered from various ailments in his final years, including problems with his eyesight and a severe case of gout. Gout is a type of arthritis that causes painful inflammation in the joints, which would have significantly affected his ability to work during his last days.
In his final moments, Michelangelo was reportedly surrounded by friends and family who had gathered to pay their last respects. He died in Rome, where he had spent a considerable portion of his life, and was later buried in the Basilica di Santa Croce, a site that honors many of Italy’s most illustrious figures. His death marked the end of an era in the Renaissance and left an indelible legacy in the world of art.