WASHINGTON (AP) — Michelangelo’s “David-Apollo” will be showcased publicly beginning Thursday at the National Gallery of Art to open a yearlong celebration of Italian culture in more than 30 U.S. cities.

The sculpture from 1530 was unveiled Wednesday by Italy’s foreign minister to launch “2013: The Year of Italian Culture,” which will showcase Italy’s art, science, music, design and innovations. Events and exhibits are planned in Los Angeles, Houston, Cleveland, New York, Boston and points in between, involving about 70 cultural institutions.

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