The Last Supper is da Vinci's other great masterpiece and one of the most famous paintings in the history of the modern world. However, due to experimental techniques used in its making, the centuries past, damage in WWII and poor restoration in the 19th century, it is a shadow of its former self and in severe danger of disappearing forever.
Twenty-two years of restoration were undertaken in the 20th century and finished in 1999 and while this helped prolong the life of the work, the damage is severe. Despite this, viewers still come and some even return and the fascinating, beautiful work continues to capture hearts. Even if you're in Milan for just the one day, it is worth seeing – just read on for tips on planning your visit.
Twenty-two years of restoration were undertaken in the 20th century and finished in 1999 and while this helped prolong the life of the work, the damage is severe. Despite this, viewers still come and some even return and the fascinating, beautiful work continues to capture hearts. Even if you're in Milan for just the one day, it is worth seeing – just read on for tips on planning your visit.
1. You must book in advance
Be warned, you can not simply wander in and see the Last Supper. Tickets must be reserved. Ticket dates are released around four months in advance and can be purchased online. It is best to book as par advance of your trip as possible in order to suit your desired times and dates. However, if you’re booking last minute, you might get lucky! By periodically checking the website or calling the hotline (+39 0292 800360), you might be able to pick up tickets from a cancelled group or individual reservations. Sometimes, if you turn up at the very beginning of the day, there may be some tickets available but this is unlikely.
2. Cost and opening hours
Tickets 6.50 euro, plus a 1.50 euro service charge and the painting is open to visits Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15am to 6:45pm.
3. Be warned, you only get 15 minutes with the work!
Even if you book months in advance, you’ll still have only 15 minutes in front of the painting, no exceptions made. This is true even for tours! Also, make sure to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your scheduled time, as late visitors will not be allowed inside.
4. Appropriate clothes
It is not a museum but a church so be sure to wear appropriate clothing – meaning no shorts and shoulders and knees must be covered.
5. No photos!
If you don't want a fuss or problems during your visit, don't even try it. Photographs are strictly forbidden to preserve the delicate painting.
Keep all this in mind and you'll have a pleasant visit! Just find a vacation rental in Milan and drop by.
Be warned, you can not simply wander in and see the Last Supper. Tickets must be reserved. Ticket dates are released around four months in advance and can be purchased online. It is best to book as par advance of your trip as possible in order to suit your desired times and dates. However, if you’re booking last minute, you might get lucky! By periodically checking the website or calling the hotline (+39 0292 800360), you might be able to pick up tickets from a cancelled group or individual reservations. Sometimes, if you turn up at the very beginning of the day, there may be some tickets available but this is unlikely.
2. Cost and opening hours
Tickets 6.50 euro, plus a 1.50 euro service charge and the painting is open to visits Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15am to 6:45pm.
3. Be warned, you only get 15 minutes with the work!
Even if you book months in advance, you’ll still have only 15 minutes in front of the painting, no exceptions made. This is true even for tours! Also, make sure to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your scheduled time, as late visitors will not be allowed inside.
4. Appropriate clothes
It is not a museum but a church so be sure to wear appropriate clothing – meaning no shorts and shoulders and knees must be covered.
5. No photos!
If you don't want a fuss or problems during your visit, don't even try it. Photographs are strictly forbidden to preserve the delicate painting.
Keep all this in mind and you'll have a pleasant visit! Just find a vacation rental in Milan and drop by.