Leonardo da Vinci

(1452-1519)

Leonardo da Vinci is considered by many to be the real founder of modern science, even though he is more widely recognized for his incomparable paintings (right). He was also a great engineer and architect, designing many of the chief structures and public works of Milan. His scientific notebooks are filled with studies and analyses of problems in dynamics, anatomy, physics, optics, biology, hydraulics, and even aeronautics, all far in advance of his time. He was an experimental scientist long before the formulation of the so-called scientific method.

Leonardo was also, according to all accounts, a man of high moral character, gracious and kind in all dealings. Although his few extant manuscripts deal with art or science, rather than theology, there is no doubt that he wa s a sincere believer in Christ and the Scriptures, as well as the general faith of the church. If nothing else were available to give this testimony, his great work of art, The Last Supper, with its profound insights into the heart of Christ and the disciples, a painting that has blessed and stirred the souls of multitudes over the centuries, would bear witness of his faith.

"Men of Science Men of God", Henry M. Morris, Master Books, pp. 9, 10

Interesting facts about Leonardo Da Vinci

Leonardo was one of the greatest painters in history. However, his interests and accomplishments went far beyond the world of art. At various times Leonardo was an inventor, scientist, engineer, architect, and designer. His investigations marked the beginning of the scientific revolution. Take a look at some of the things Leonardo was involved with!

These are just a few examples of his wide variety of interests! He based the idea for his helicopter on the action of a screw!

Leonardo drew the plans for the first armored car in 1485! He also designed the cannon, a machine gun, gliders, turnspit for roasting meat, canal system to irrigate fields and transport goods in Milan, invented the parachute, a movable bridge for the Duke of Milan, various ladders for storming and climbing castle walls, a machine to make concave mirrors, a pump for well water, made maps of Europe, made the first accurate drawings of the human anatomy, designed a revolving stage for plays and pageants, created an inflatable tube so people could float in the water, invented the scissors, invented the bicycle 300 years before it appeared on the road, and in his spare time painted some of the most beautiful paintings the world has ever known! All in a single lifetime!

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