Santa  Maria  delle  Grazie​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 9 January 2024
The church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan was built in the 15th century but owes most of its fame to a painting on the wall of its refectory: The Last Supper (1495 - 1497) by Leonardo da Vinci.

Built with elements of Gothic and Renaissance style architecture, the church and its Dominican Convent of Santa Maria have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. 
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The Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie, or the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, is a famous religious landmark located in Milan, Italy. It is renowned for housing one of the most celebrated masterpieces of Renaissance art, Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper." The church and its iconic mural have earned a place on UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites.
History
The church was originally commissioned by Duke Francesco I of the Sforza family and construction began in 1463. It was designed by architect Guiniforte Solari and continued by Donato Bramante. The church's construction experienced several interruptions and changes over the years, but it was finally completed in the late 15th century.

In the 16th century, the apse of the church was decorated with frescoes by artists such as Gaudenzio Ferrari and Bernardino Luini. However, the most significant addition to the church came in the late 15th century when Leonardo da Vinci was commissioned to paint "The Last Supper" on the refectory wall.
Key features
  • "The Last Supper": "The Last Supper" is undoubtedly the main highlight of the church. This iconic fresco depicts the emotional moment when Jesus Christ reveals to his apostles that one of them will betray him. The painting is considered one of the greatest achievements of Western art, admired for its meticulous detail and the lifelike expressions of the figures. Due to its delicate state of preservation, access to the fresco is strictly regulated, and visitors are required to book timed-entry tickets in advance.
  • Church Interior: Besides "The Last Supper," the church's interior also boasts stunning Renaissance architecture and artwork. The nave is adorned with beautiful frescoes by Ferrari and Luini, depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.
  • Cloister: The church complex includes a lovely Renaissance-style cloister, which offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Visitors can take a stroll through the cloister's arcades and admire the graceful architecture.
  • Tour Guided: To fully appreciate the history and significance of "The Last Supper" and the church, it is recommended to take a guided tour. Expert guides can provide valuable insights into the artwork and the historical context of the church.
Visitor information 
To visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and see "The Last Supper," it is crucial to plan ahead. Given the limited daily access to the mural, tickets tend to sell out quickly. Visitors should book tickets well in advance through official channels or authorized ticket vendors.

Please note that due to the delicate nature of the fresco, visitors are required to follow strict guidelines, such as maintaining a suitable distance from the artwork and refraining from flash photography.
Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie
City: Milan

Province: Metropolitan City of Milan

Region: Lombardy

Groundbreaking: 1463

Architectural style: Gothic, Renaissance

Nearest Metro station: Conciliazione - M1 - 350 m - 4 minute walk

Close by: Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio, Parco Sempione, Sforza Castle

​​Recommended hotel: Château Monfort - Relais & Châteaux
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie with "The Last Supper" by Leonardo da Vinci

​Year: 1980

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