An art historian claims he has located the burial place of Leonardo’s Mona Lisa. Lisa Gheradini lived close to Leonardo and it is thought that her husband commssioned Leonardo to paint her portrait.  Scientists hope to be able to analyse her DNA. This may help to solve the secret of her enigmatic smile as various theories have offered explanations such as blackened teeth and congenital palsy.

It is amazing that there is so much sustained interest over one painting.  I did a bit of research on the interent about this. I must confess that I know very little about art but had always wondered why that one painting received so much attention.  For me it is a bit like the ethos behind my business Europe a la Carte where I highlight less well known destinations in Europe.  I am sure that there are other paintings by Da Vinci and many other artists that you may enjoy as much if not more than Mona Lisa.  At least if you go to look some other artists work, you might be to get closer to the painting and have time to appreciate it without being jousled by the crowds.