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Santa Maria delle Grazie: A Renaissance Masterpiece

Discover Milan's UNESCO gem: Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' and stunning Renaissance architecture.

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Santa Maria delle Grazie, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Milan, is renowned for housing Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' and its stunning Renaissance architecture. The church and adjoining refectory offer a captivating glimpse into Milan's artistic and religious history.

A brief summary to Santa Maria delle Grazie

  • Monday 9 am-12:20 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-12:20 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-12:20 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-12:20 pm
  • Friday 9 am-12:20 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-12:20 pm
  • Sunday 3 pm-5:50 pm

Local tips

  • Book tickets well in advance, especially for 'The Last Supper,' as entry is timed and limited.
  • Entry to the church is free, but a separate ticket is required to view 'The Last Supper'.
  • Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a religious site.
  • Photography is generally not allowed inside the church, including when viewing 'The Last Supper'.
  • Consider a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the church and its artwork.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Milano Centrale Station, take the Green Line (M2) to Cadorna. From Cadorna, it's approximately an 8-minute walk to Santa Maria delle Grazie. Alternatively, from Duomo di Milano, take the Red Line (M1) to Conciliazione station, followed by a 6-minute walk to the church. A single ticket for the metro or tram costs €2 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Tram

    Take Tram 16 and get off at the Santa Maria delle Grazie stop, which is right in front of the church. Tram tickets cost €2 and are valid for 90 minutes.

  • Walking

    From the city center, Santa Maria delle Grazie is accessible by foot. From Milano Cadorna train station, it is an 8-minute walk. From the Duomo, it is approximately a 25-minute walk. Walking allows you to see more of Milan's beautiful streets. No cost involved.

  • Parking

    If driving, note that Santa Maria delle Grazie is within Milan's Area C, a limited traffic zone. Access requires payment of a ticket (€5) on weekdays from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Parking near the church is limited. Parcheggio Zenale is the closest parking garage, a 3-minute walk away. Other options include Sant'Ambrogio and Carducci, both about a 10-minute walk. Parking fees typically start around €3 per hour.

Unlock the Best of Santa Maria delle Grazie

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Discover more about Santa Maria delle Grazie

Santa Maria delle Grazie, located in the heart of Milan, is a captivating blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, holding within its walls both artistic treasures and historical significance. Commissioned in 1459 by Francesco I Sforza, Duke of Milan, the complex was initially designed in the Gothic style by Guiniforte Solari. However, under the patronage of Ludovico Sforza, the church underwent a transformative remodeling by Donato Bramante, who introduced the Renaissance elements, including the magnificent apse and dome. The church served as the Sforza family burial site, adding to its prestige and importance. Today, visitors can explore the serene cloisters, admire the intricate brickwork and terracotta details, and appreciate the harmonious blend of architectural styles. The main draw for many is Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper', a masterpiece painted on the wall of the refectory. This iconic mural, created between 1495 and 1498, depicts the moment when Jesus tells his disciples that one of them will betray him. Despite surviving wartime bombings and centuries of restoration, the painting continues to draw countless admirers. Viewing is strictly limited to preserve the artwork. Beyond 'The Last Supper,' the church boasts other artistic gems, including frescoes by Gaudenzio Ferrari, Bernardo Zenale, and Bramantino. The Tribuna, designed by Bramante, stands as an exceptional example of Renaissance architecture. The Chiostro delle Rane (Frog Cloister) offers a tranquil space to appreciate the beauty and history of this remarkable site.

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