Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie: Home to “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci

This guide offers an in-depth exploration of the Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a historic landmark in Milan, Italy, famed for housing Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Last Supper.”

History and Architecture

Origin and Development

Santa Maria delle Grazie was built between 1463 and 1499, under the direction of architects Bramante, Gian Giacomo Dolcebuono, and Pietro Canonica. The convent was initially meant to be a part of a complex that included a church, a cloister, and various other buildings.

Architectural Features

The church is characterized by its late Gothic architecture, featuring three naves, a transept, and a dome. The interior boasts intricate frescoes and a beautiful bell tower. The convent’s cloister, adorned with elegant columns, offers a serene space for contemplation.

The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci

Background

Commissioned by Ludovico Sforza in 1495, “The Last Supper” is one of Leonardo’s most famous works. It was originally intended to be part of a decorative scheme for the refectory (dining hall) of the monastery, but unfortunately, it has undergone extensive deterioration over the centuries.

Description

The mural measures approximately 15 x 29 feet and depicts the biblical scene of Jesus’ last meal with his disciples before his crucifixion. The painting is renowned for its use of perspective, dramatic contrasts, and psychological depth in portraying the emotions of each character present.

Restoration Efforts

Over the years, “The Last Supper” has faced numerous challenges due to environmental factors and vandalism. Restorations have been carried out since 1357, with the latest campaign taking place between 1978 and 1999. Today, protective measures have been put in place to preserve this priceless artwork for future generations.

Visitor Information

Location

The Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie is located at Via San Fedele, 7, 20123 Milano MI, Italy. It can be easily reached by public transportation, with the closest metro station being Conciliazione (M1 and M3 lines).

Opening Hours

The church is open to visitors Tuesday through Sunday from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, while the refectory where “The Last Supper” is located has specific visiting hours: Tuesday through Friday from 2:30 PM to 7:00 PM and Saturday through Sunday from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM.

Ticket Prices

Tickets for the church are free, while admission to view “The Last Supper” requires a reservation with a fee of €15 (approximately $17 USD). It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

Additional Tips

• Wear appropriate clothing when visiting the church and refectory, as bare shoulders and exposed knees are not permitted.
• Allow ample time for your visit, as queues can be long, and it’s essential to appreciate the beauty of both the church and Leonardo’s masterpiece.
• Consider purchasing an audio guide or joining a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the artwork and its historical context.