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Santa Maria delle Grazie: Art, Architecture, and Da Vinci's Masterpiece

Discover Renaissance art and architecture at Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Leonardo da Vinci's iconic "The Last Supper" in Milan.

Santa Maria delle Grazie is a church and Dominican convent in Milan, Italy, famed for housing Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper". This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, with contributions from Guiniforte Solari and Donato Bramante. A visit here offers a unique opportunity to witness artistic brilliance and architectural grandeur.

A brief summary to Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2

  • Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2, Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, 20123, IT

Local tips

  • Book tickets to see The Last Supper well in advance, as they often sell out weeks or months ahead.
  • Arrive early for your timed entry to allow for security checks and to fully enjoy the experience.
  • Photography is not allowed inside the church or while viewing The Last Supper.
  • Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
  • Explore the surrounding Magenta district, known for its elegant streets and historical landmarks.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Santa Maria delle Grazie is easily accessible via Milan's efficient public transport system. * **Metro:** Take the M1 (red line) to Conciliazione station, which is a 5-minute walk to the church. Alternatively, take the M2 (green line) to Cadorna station, followed by an 8-minute walk. A single ticket costs €2 and is valid for 90 minutes on both the metro and trams. * **Tram:** Tram 16 stops directly in front of Santa Maria delle Grazie. * **Bus:** Bus 50 stops near Cadorna station, a short walk from the church.

  • Walking

    From the Duomo, Santa Maria delle Grazie is approximately a 15-minute walk. Head west along Via Giuseppe Mengoni, then continue onto Via Cesare Cantù. Turn left onto Via Magenta, and the church will be on your right.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Milan. A taxi from Milano Centrale train station to Santa Maria delle Grazie typically costs around €12-€13 and takes about 6 minutes, but this can vary depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services are also available.

  • Parking

    If driving, be aware of Milan's Area C traffic restriction zone, which limits vehicle access at certain times. Parking near Santa Maria delle Grazie can be challenging. * **Parcheggio Zenale:** Located a 3-minute walk from the church. * **Garage alle Grazie:** Offers parking a 3-minute walk from Santa Maria delle Grazie. * **Corso Magenta 56:** Another parking option within a 3-minute walk. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €3-€4 per hour. Consider parking further out and using public transport.

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Discover more about Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2

Located in the heart of Milan, Santa Maria delle Grazie is a testament to the city's rich artistic and religious history. The complex, comprising a church and Dominican convent, is best known for housing Leonardo da Vinci's iconic masterpiece, "The Last Supper," located in the refectory. The church's construction began in 1463 under the direction of Guiniforte Solari, in the Lombard Gothic style. Duke Ludovico Sforza later decided to use the church as the family burial site and commissioned Donato Bramante to remodel the apse and cloister in the Renaissance style. This blend of architectural styles contributes to the church's unique appeal. "The Last Supper," painted by Leonardo da Vinci between 1495 and 1498, depicts the moment when Jesus tells his disciples that one of them will betray him. Da Vinci's innovative painting technique, using oil paint instead of traditional fresco, and his mastery of chiaroscuro, contribute to the artwork's enduring impact. The painting miraculously survived the bombing of World War II, which destroyed much of the refectory. Opposite "The Last Supper" is the Crucifixion fresco of Giovanni Donato da Montorfano. Today, Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the globe. Access to the Last Supper is timed and limited to preserve the artwork, and tickets must be purchased well in advance.

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