Experience The Last Supper: Da Vinci's Masterpiece

History of a Masterpiece

Commissioned by Leonardo da Vinci's patron, Ludovico Sforza, Cenacolo Vinciano can be found on one of the refectory walls of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Painting lasted from around 1495 to 1498, with da Vinci opting to use oils paints rather than the more reliable watercolour fresco technique. The result of this is that the painting started to crumble only a few years after its completion and ever since has been under ongoing restoration.
It has, however, miraculously escaped bombing during World War II, which destroyed a sizeable area of the refectory. It has also endured vandalism at the hands of anti-clerical French troops who used it for target practice. Add to this the humidity factor and it is clear that the mural has been through a lot.

Experiencing Cenacolo Vinciano

The easiest way to get here is to alight at Metro Conciliazione or Metro San Ambrogio. Today the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site not just for its own beauty but also due to its connection to one of the world's most revered masterpieces.
Buying tickets online before arriving is a good idea and it is also worth taking a tour to help you unravel the many mysteries behind this painting that has inspired writers, directors and artists for centuries. Note that you are allowed to view the painting for 15 minutes.
There are not many works of art in the world as complex and fascinating as this one, so while in Milan, be sure to pay it a visit.

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Author: Sabrina Renna

Guest Relations at nhow Milano

Ciao! My name is Sabrina and I am Guest Relations Manager at nhow Milano since January 2024. I love my job as gives me the chance to know guests from all over the world who enjoy their stay for business either for leisure. I enjoy creating a sort of engagement and connection with them in order to anticipate their needs or questions given them the best opportunities and some genuine suggestions to have a great stay. The most important task is also creating lovely and special memories in order for the guests to come back soon for new experiences at nhow Milano. I always have good memories of my previous job which was Guest Relations on cruise lines therefore after some years I studied and achieved the boat license, I think good feelings and good memories will always create your life journey and create a path for your next goal.