Santa Maria delle Grazie Highlights: Must-See Features and Attractions

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Santa Maria delle Grazie is located in the west of Milan, on the south side of the Sforza Castle. This red Catholic building consists of a church and a Dominican monastery. It is famous for the fresco "The Last Supper" by Leonardo da Vinci in the monastery's refectory. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. . The Last Supper "The Last Supper" was created by Leonardo da Vinci in the 15th century, using innovative and bold painting techniques combining oil and tempera, creating a unique perspective effect, but also easily eroded. On August 15, 1943, the church and the congregation were bombed by British and American aircraft, and most of the canteen of the congregation was destroyed, but the wall on which The Last Supper was located survived. Centuries later, 80 percent of the painting's colors had faded, and restoration work began in 1977 and continued for 22 years. At present, the number of visitors is strictly controlled, and the number of visitors cannot exceed 30 at a time. In addition to the "Last Supper", the church building itself is also worth seeing. The church was built under the auspices of Duke Sforzesco and was finally completed in 1490. It was once used as the tomb of the Sforzesco family. Later, when the French invaded, the cultural relics and treasures in the church were looted, but the exquisite dome and frescoes were still preserved. The sacristy is now the Dominican cultural center, and often holds some salons and art exhibitions.

Additional Information

Getting Around

You can either take subway M1 line and alight at Conciliazione Station or M2 line and alight at Cadorna Station. Alternatively you can take 18 route trams and alight at Magenta S Maria delle Grazi Station.

Helpful Information

1.To view ‘The Last Supper’ you have to book 2-3 months in advance through the official website. After the registration, you will proceed to choose the day, and after the day, you will choose the timing.2.The total commentary of the audio guide will take about 20 minutes with the first 5 minutes the introduction of the mural. Every day from 9:30am to 3.:30pm, there will be guided tour in English. You have to go 20 minutes earlier to collect your tickets, and please take note of the timing.3.During your viewing of ‘The Last Supper’, it is prohibited to take pictures of it. However, within the convent are gift shops where you can buy postcards and souvenirs.

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