If you are planning to enjoy a sunny holiday in the area of Milan in Northern Italy, you can’t pass by the opportunity to visit the famous Santa Maria delle Grazie church and convent in Milan city in which the original fresco of ‘The Last Supper’ by Leonardo di Vinci was painted onto the refectory wall!
Enjoy a welcoming stay in one of many exclusive holiday villas in Milan where you can base a trip to this historical building.
Began in 1463, this seemingly humble building was finished by some of the greatest architects and painters in Renaissance history. Donato Bramante, who was one of the first architects to work on St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, designed the apse and cloister of the church which can still be admired today. But it is Leonardo da Vinci’s famous ‘Last Supper’ fresco that continues to draw thousands of tourists to this church year after year.
Enjoy a welcoming stay in one of many exclusive holiday villas in Milan where you can base a trip to this historical building.
Began in 1463, this seemingly humble building was finished by some of the greatest architects and painters in Renaissance history. Donato Bramante, who was one of the first architects to work on St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, designed the apse and cloister of the church which can still be admired today. But it is Leonardo da Vinci’s famous ‘Last Supper’ fresco that continues to draw thousands of tourists to this church year after year.
His interpretation of the apostles’ reaction when Jesus said ‘One of you will betray me’ is magnificent. Notice Da Vinci’s clever use of sections of three in the painting; the apostles are grouped into threes; there are three windows behind the scene to add an extra dimension of light and perspective. The painting is wonderfully balanced with two groups of apostles either side of Jesus who is sitting right where the vanishing point of the painting is.
Visitors will be amazed to learn that this masterpiece has narrowly escaped destruction on several occasions. In 1796, Napoleon’s troops used the wall as target practice when they camped in the church during the Battle of Arcole. During World War II, bombs were dropped on the church and convent but the wall with this fresco on it remained intact.
Visitors will be amazed to learn that this masterpiece has narrowly escaped destruction on several occasions. In 1796, Napoleon’s troops used the wall as target practice when they camped in the church during the Battle of Arcole. During World War II, bombs were dropped on the church and convent but the wall with this fresco on it remained intact.
Tourists wishing to see now preserved fresco need to book tickets online at least two months in advance as they sell out very quickly. Covered shoulders and no shorts above the knee are rules to be strictly abided to if you wish to get past the doors.
Ticket information and purchase can be obtained by clicking here.This exciting chance to see one of Leonardo di Vinci’s original masterpieces will be an experience that is guaranteed to enrich your Italian holiday. Read more about Leonardo da Vinci, an artistic genius in our dedicated article!
Ticket information and purchase can be obtained by clicking here.This exciting chance to see one of Leonardo di Vinci’s original masterpieces will be an experience that is guaranteed to enrich your Italian holiday. Read more about Leonardo da Vinci, an artistic genius in our dedicated article!
Photo credits
picture 3: Abelson / CC BY 2.5/a>
picture 3: Abelson / CC BY 2.5/a>
