Last Supper - Santa Maria delle Grazie
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The Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan is not only one of the city's most important churches but also a remarkable testimony to Renaissance art. Its impressive architecture and rich history make it a fascinating place for visitors from all over the world. However, the true jewel of this church is undoubtedly the masterpiece ‘The Last Supper’ by Leonardo da Vinci, found in its refectory. This iconic depiction of the biblical Last Supper attracts thousands of art lovers and pilgrims every year, making Santa Maria delle Grazie an essential destination for anyone wishing to experience the rich culture and history of Milan.
By Jessica Donev
By Jessica DonevSelect a date to find available tickets, tours & activities:
Tickets
Book skip-the-line tickets for Da Vinci's Last Supper in the monastery of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Last Supper self-guided audio tour on your phone without ticket
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Tours
Enjoy a guided tour of the Santa Maria Delle Grazie and visit The Last Supper.Milan: Da Vinci's Last Supper Guided Tour
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Best of Milan Guided Tour with the Last Supper skip the line
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Milan walking tour with Last Supper entrance tickets
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Milan: Renaissance Treasures & The Last Supper Walking Tour
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More Tickets & Tours
Combine your viewing of the painting with a city tour of Milan.Da Vinci's Last Supper Guided Tour
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Express Tour of the Last Supper in Milan I Small Group of Max 6
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Milan: Small Group Walking Tour with Last Supper Access
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Milan: Walking Guided Tour with Milan Cathedral & Last Supper
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12 tips for visiting the Last Supper - Santa Maria delle Grazie
The Last Supper
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Must book in advanceOnly 30 guests are allowed to enter the windowless room at a time. Each time slot is 15 minutes. These restrictions are precautionary measures to prevent further damage to the wall. So, make sure to book your tickets well in advance. Compare your ticket options here at TicketLens.
Santa Maria delle Grazie | Photo: Flickr, Davide Oliva - CC BY-SA 2.0
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Tours and GroupsYou can also book tickets for guided tours for the painting 'The Last Supper'. Here, any questions can be directly answered by an expert. Without a guided tour, you should familiarize yourself with the history of the work in advance to make the most of your time on-site. Our historical summary below provides an initial overview.
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Keep an eye on ticket release datesTickets are released quarterly. For example, tickets for the quarter from May 1 to July 31 are usually made available for sale in mid-March. Keep an eye on the release dates to grab one of the coveted and limited tickets.
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Dive into the paintingBook a ticket along with the workshop. In doing so, you will delve into the spirituality of Leonardo, depicted through the gestures of the apostles. In this immersive experience, you can dress up like an apostle yourself and sit at the table. Live your spirituality and express your feelings. You will also receive a souvenir photo.
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Learn even more in a masterclassDuring a 45-minute masterclass, you can get to know the Museo Cenacolo Vinciano even better. The varied lectures will deepen your understanding of The Last Supper, Leonardo Da Vinci, or Milan.
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Book the VR experienceWith the help of a VR headset, you can beam yourself back to the 15th century. Get to know Milan during the time when Leonardo and his patron Ludovico strolled through its streets. Find out why Leonardo moved from Florence to Milan in his thirties.
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Avoid delaysMake sure to arrive 10 minutes before your time slot. Entry is not guaranteed in case of delay. You should allow about 45 minutes for a visit. Before entry, you will go through a room with historical information about the painting; after that, 15 minutes are allowed at the artwork.
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Photos allowedIn general, photos of the artwork The Last Supper are allowed. However, any flash functions of your phone or device are strictly prohibited. There is strict monitoring by the staff.
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Visit the rest of the monastery tooThe monastery Santa Maria delle Grazie offers a double dose of packed art history. Directly opposite the painting 'The Last Supper', you can view 'The Crucifixion' by Giovanni Donato da Montorfano, a lesser-known fresco from the Renaissance that is in comparatively good condition.
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Dress appropriatelyKeep in mind that Santa Maria delle Grazie is a religious site. Therefore, appropriate clothing and behavior should be observed.
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Book a guided tour through MilanCombine the visit to Santa Maria delle Grazie with a city tour. Explore the center of Milan with a local guide and learn more about the city by observing its greatest artistic achievements.
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Visit nearby attractions in MilanSince the Santa Maria delle Grazie is located in the city center of Milan, you can reach other attractions of the city within a few minutes on foot. Very close by is the Sforza Castle or also the San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore and of course the Milan Cathedral.
Our range of tickets in detail
We offer a wide range of tickets. Here is an explanation of the different options we offer.
Gelato | Unsplash: getty images
Private tour with 'gelato' tasting
Book a private 3-hour tour of Milan and discover its most fascinating sights at your leisure and without queuing. Experience the cultural and historical significance of the city as you admire the Milan Cathedral and explore the underground archaeological area. Your guide will also take you to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade and the famous La Scala opera house before you visit the majestic Sforza Castle castle. The tour ends with a visit to Leonardo Da Vinci's masterpiece 'The Last Supper' and a gelato tasting included in the ticket price at one of the best gelato places in the city.
Milan Cathedral | Unsplash: Kateryna Hliznitsova
'The Last Supper' in combination with a guided tour of Milan
Experience the historical highlights of Milan during a fascinating 3-hour tour. Your guide will of course take you to the famous painting 'The Last Supper' by Leonardo Da Vinci and to the impressive castle Sforza Castle, surrounded by a picturesque park. Continue to the magnificent opera house La Scala and the elegant shopping arcade Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Finally, admire the majestic Gothic Milan Cathedral from the outside before enjoying an optional traditional Italian lunch to round off your tour perfectly. Take a closer look at our ticket offer!
Guided tours
Experience Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' up close on a guided tour of the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and the refectory, accompanied by a licensed guide. Learn fascinating details about the famous mural and the history of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Santa Maria delle Grazie (dome)
The monastery ‘Santa Maria delle Grazie’
A masterpiece of Renaissance art and a spiritual refuge.Santa Maria delle Grazie (interior)
Santa Maria delle Grazie - Church and Monastery
In the picturesque alleyways of Milan, a church and an associated monastery rise into the skyline. This building is not only an architectural jewel but also has a deep spiritual significance. The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie is a symbol of the rich history and culture of this vibrant city. Its elegant lines and ornate details are a breathtaking testimony of Renaissance architecture and attract visitors from all over the world. Santa Maria delle Grazie is one of the most beautiful Italian churches and typical of Milan's late Gothic architecture. It was built by the Dominicans between 1463 and 1482 and has always stood out from the other churches in the city. It was constructed from terracotta bricks, stucco, granite, and marble. The low building profile makes the cylindrical tower stand out in the Milan skyline. The colors, rounded edges, detailed medallions, and sculptures give this church and its monastery an incredibly inviting appearance. It has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1980.
Spirituality | Unsplash: Karolina Grabowska
The Last Supper
A highlight of the visit is undoubtedly 'The Last Supper' by Leonardo da Vinci - a world-famous masterpiece that can be found in the refectory of the monastery. The refectory is the hall where the brothers used to take their meals. The painting has dimensions of exactly 460x880cm (15.1x28.9ft). The iconic painting tells the story of the biblical Last Supper and captures the moment between Jesus and his disciples when he announces that one of them will betray him. It is a work of art that not only appeals to the senses but also touches the soul, and its significance goes far beyond its artistic brilliance. Read more about the painting below on TicketLens!
Other artworks in the monastery
Opposite da Vinci’s Last Supper, on the south side of the refectory, is the mural 'The Crucifixion', completed in 1495. This artwork was created by Giovanni Donato Da Montorfano, a contemporary of da Vinci. There is also a statue of the Last Supper in the church. When you leave the museum, you can read about the history of the artworks and the church on information boards. You can also find more information about this further down this page.
The spiritual significance of Santa Maria delle Grazie
Santa Maria delle Grazie is more than just a place of aesthetic pleasure; it is also a site for spiritual minds. For centuries, the monastery has served as a refuge for believers who come here to find comfort and deepen their spiritual journey. The church and the monastery radiate an uncanny aura of calm and reflection that captivates every visitor and allows a break from the hectic hustle and bustle of modern life.
The challenges of tourism
Santa Maria delle Grazie also faces challenges, especially in dealing with mass tourism and protecting its cultural heritage. The desire to attract visitors while preserving the historical and spiritual integrity of the church makes this balancing act a constant challenge. The authorities strive to find a balance and ensure that Santa Maria delle Grazie remains a place of inspiration and faith for future generations.
Conclusion
Overall, Santa Maria delle Grazie is an oasis of beauty, history, and faith in the bustling metropolis of Milan. Its architectural splendor, artistic heritage, and spiritual significance make it an indispensable destination for anyone wanting to experience the rich culture and history of Italy. Visit Santa Maria delle Grazie in peace and let its beauty and spirit enchant you.
The Last Supper | Dimitris Kamaras CC BY 2.0
Why the fascination for 'The Last Supper'?
Nothing epitomizes the Western Renaissance like Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper'—perhaps only his Mona Lisa can surpass the impact of the epochal wall painting. But why is 'The Last Supper' so iconic?The Creation
The Last Supper is considered a masterpiece of the Renaissance, the European transition from the Middle Ages to modern times. This epoch, which began in Italy, is marked by an unprecedented realism in visual arts. One of the most famous polymaths of this era, Leonardo da Vinci, was commissioned shortly before the end of the 15th century to depict the Last Supper of Jesus Christ on a 38m² (409ft²) wall in Santa Maria delle Grazie.
What's happening in the picture
The iconic painting shows the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles, as he reveals to them that a betrayal is imminent. The expressions are visibly shocked, only the traitor Judas has lowered his gaze. The tragic facial expression of Jesus Christ takes the center of the image. A peculiarity of the time: Da Vinci omitted halos.
Judas, Peter, and John | Dimitris Kamaras CC BY 2.0
A delicate matter
The strict security measures on site are anything but unfounded. Already around 20 years after completion, 'The Last Supper' was damaged and declared ruined. It likely began to flake off due to moisture even before that. In the 17th century, a door was cut into the wall for a short time. Protective measures and restoration attempts over the following centuries had weak or even negative impacts. After all: the masterpiece survived the Second World War; the last restoration was completed in 1999. Accordingly, the remnants are as delicate as they appear today.
Jesus in the center | Dimitris Kamaras CC BY 2.0
Not an easy painting
Although the Last Supper is a mural, it is not a traditional fresco as we know from the ceilings of modern churches and palaces. Leonardo da Vinci did not apply the paint directly onto the fresh plaster of the wall. This allowed him to work more slowly and to elaborate special details such as light reflections and shading. Nevertheless, it took him only from 1494 to 1497. On the other hand, his approach caused serious problems for preservation.
John or Mary Magdalene? | Dimitris Kamaras CC BY 2.0
Still popular today
Last but not least, the dramaturgy surrounding the betrayal by Judas creates an impact that has been cited countless times, picked up by movies and series, or even mocked. The epochal artwork gained a whole new significance through the film adaptation of 'The Da Vinci Code'. This played with the idea that the depiction of the scene might contain plans for secret conspiracies. Although scientists have debunked these theories, the archetypal image of the Renaissance has nevertheless gained newfound popularity.
Damage to the painting | Dimitris Kamaras CC BY 2.0
New Splendor
The last restoration took twenty years of work. The newly created version from 1999 is not without controversy. For example, some miss details in the facial expression of Jesus Christ. Nevertheless, among other things, scientific methods are said to have reconstructed Da Vinci’s vision more faithfully than ever before. Botched repairs and failed restoration attempts of past centuries were eliminated. The limitation on the number of visitors and the modern ventilation system are intended to preserve this new splendor for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I order tickets?
Tickets for The Last Supper must be reserved in advance. The tickets sell out quickly, so it’s worth booking early! If tickets are sold out on the official website, you might still be able to get some through TicketLens with a bit of luck! Here you can compare your best options for visiting and purchase through our ticket partners. Read more.
Can I reserve tickets at any time?
Tickets are released quarterly. For example, tickets for the quarter from May 1st to July 31st are offered for sale in mid-March. Read more.
What types of tickets are available?
There are regular admission tickets, as well as tickets with tours in English or Italian. You can also book a workshop with a bilingual guide. As an add-on for your ticket, there is also a museum guide in the form of a book. Here on TicketLens, you also have the opportunity to book a visit to the Last Supper as part of a guided tour through Milan. Read more.
What is the Masterclass?
If you want to get to know the Museo Cenacolo Vinciano more closely, a Masterclass is just the thing for you. These masterclasses are 45-minute interactive lectures about the Last Supper, Leonardo Da Vinci, or Milan in the Renaissance. The Masterclass about Milan in Leonardo's time is a special experience because you can explore 15th-century Milan with a VR headset. Read more.
What is the Workshop?
A guided tour can be booked in conjunction with a workshop. You will spend 15 minutes in the refectory and learn details about the painting during the visit. Afterwards, you will spend another 60 minutes in the classroom. There, visitors can experiment with Leonardo's spirituality. The immersive experience allows you to sit at the table dressed as the apostles and express your feelings freely. A souvenir photo is, of course, also included. Read more.
Is the museum of Santa Maria delle Grazie accessible barrier-free?
The Last Supper can also be visited with motor impairments. Read more.
Is there a cloakroom?
The museum cannot be entered with large luggage. There are lockers with keys. Read more.
Is there an audio guide?
The audio guide was abolished. Visitors should use the official app for iOS and Android. Read more.
General information
opening hours
address
Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie 2
20123 Milan
Italy
website
tickets
how to get there
Written byJessica DonevJessica is the definition of Jack of all trades. When she wants to do something, she just does it. That's why Jessica is an event manager, professional dancer, trainer, content creator, speaker / presenter in training and much more. Having traveled the world a lot, she knows what's important when traveling and shares it with you here on TicketLens.
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