Cenacolo di Sant’Apollonia
A serene former monastery housing Andrea del Castagno's monumental 'Last Supper' fresco, predating Da Vinci's.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Cenacolo di Sant’Apollonia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene former monastery housing Andrea del Castagno's monumental 'Last Supper' fresco, predating Da Vinci's.
"A rare treat to have such a beautiful space all to yourself in the heart of Florence."
🎯 Free Entry & Quiet Space
Enjoy this gem for free! It's a perfect spot for a quiet moment away from the city bustle. :moneywithwings:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary, especially on weekends. Always confirm before you go to avoid disappointment. :alarm_clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Andrea del Castagno's Last Supper
Refectory
A monumental fresco predating Da Vinci's, offering a powerful and serene depiction of Christ's betrayal.
Former Benedictine Monastery
Explore the historic architecture and tranquil ambiance of this 14th-century convent, a peaceful retreat.
Renaissance Artwork Collection
A small but curated selection of Renaissance art, offering a glimpse into the period's artistic achievements.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Understand the 'Last Supper' Tradition
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry & Quiet Space
Enjoy this gem for free! It's a perfect spot for a quiet moment away from the city bustle. :moneywithwings:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary, especially on weekends. Always confirm before you go to avoid disappointment. :alarm_clock:
🚶♀️ Relaxing & Reflective
Take your time to admire the 'Last Supper' fresco; it's a serene experience. :person_walking:
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
The fresco predates Da Vinci's and is a significant piece of Renaissance art. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry & Quiet Space
Enjoy this gem for free! It's a perfect spot for a quiet moment away from the city bustle. :moneywithwings:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary, especially on weekends. Always confirm before you go to avoid disappointment. :alarm_clock:
🚶♀️ Relaxing & Reflective
Take your time to admire the 'Last Supper' fresco; it's a serene experience. :person_walking:
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
The fresco predates Da Vinci's and is a significant piece of Renaissance art. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cenacolo di Sant'Apollonia for its impressive, free-to-enter 'Last Supper' fresco by Andrea del Castagno, offering a serene and spiritual experience. Many appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the historical significance of the former monastery, finding it a peaceful escape from the city's bustle. Some note it's a smaller site with limited other attractions, best suited for those specifically interested in the fresco.
"It is a rare treat indeed to have such a beautiful space all to yourself in the heart of Florence, but that can happen as few people visit. The tradition of painting depictions of the Last Supper in the dining hall of a monasteries is wonderful; monks and nuns who took vows of silence had something to ponder while they chewed; and that they painted the moment Christ reveals he will be betrayed by one of them is another great aspect of this tradition. Go, and enjoy a serene, spiritual experience."
TJ Ennis
"Interesting. Small place but wanted to see the last supper fresco. Not much else here, but nice to walk in and take a relaxing moment before heading back out."
C. K.
"Sant' Apollonia is an interesting 14th-century former Benedictine monastery. There is a small museum, open 8.15am to 1.50pm daily. Entry is free.
What you will see are a handful of nice Renaissance era artwork as well as a masterpiece 'Last Supper' fresco by Andrea del Castagno (1447). This fresco interestingly predates Da Vinci's last Supper in Milan by nearly 50 years so there is a very strong possibility that he would have viewed and studied Castagno's work prior to executing what his 'Last Supper' painting."
Brad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cenacolo di Sant'Apollonia is located in Florence, Italy. It's accessible by walking from the city center or via local buses. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from the Duomo area, allowing you to see more of the city along the way.
Parking in central Florence can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk. If you are driving, look for paid parking garages in the vicinity, but be prepared for city traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Cenacolo di Sant'Apollonia is free! This makes it a fantastic and accessible cultural experience in Florence.
The museum is typically open daily from 8:15 am to 1:50 pm. However, it's crucial to check the official website or local listings for the most current hours, as they can vary, especially on weekends.
To experience the 'Last Supper' fresco with fewer people, aim for weekday mornings right when it opens, or shortly before closing time. Early afternoon can also be less crowded as tour groups may have moved on.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The primary draw is the magnificent 'Last Supper' fresco by Andrea del Castagno, painted around 1447. It's a significant work that predates Leonardo da Vinci's famous version and offers a unique artistic and historical perspective.
Most visitors find that 30-60 minutes is sufficient to appreciate the 'Last Supper' fresco and the small museum. It's a place for quiet contemplation rather than an extensive exploration.
Yes, there are restrooms available on-site, which is a convenient amenity for visitors.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always best to check for any specific signage regarding flash photography. The lighting can be atmospheric, so capturing the fresco's details can be rewarding.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities within Cenacolo di Sant'Apollonia itself. It's a historical site focused on art and architecture. You'll find numerous cafes and restaurants in the surrounding Florence streets.
It's generally advisable to consume food and drinks outside the exhibition areas to preserve the artwork and historical integrity of the site.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is usually permitted inside Cenacolo di Sant'Apollonia. However, always be mindful of any posted signs regarding flash photography, as it can damage delicate artworks.
The fresco is vast, so capturing its entirety can be challenging. Try to find a spot that allows you to see the full composition. The side walls of the refectory also offer good vantage points.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it's primarily a single artwork in a historical setting, so manage expectations for younger kids who might prefer more interactive exhibits. However, its free entry and manageable size make it an easy addition to a Florence itinerary without adding stress or cost.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's a perfect way to add a dose of culture to your trip without impacting your wallet. Combine it with a picnic lunch in a nearby piazza for an even more economical day out in Florence.
🧘 Solo Travelers
It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the art and history at your own pace, making it a rewarding solo experience. The free entry also makes it an easy and accessible stop during your explorations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Significance of the 'Last Supper' Fresco
The tradition of painting 'Last Supper' scenes in monastic dining halls was common, serving as a visual aid for contemplation during meals. Castagno's fresco stands out for its bold use of perspective and its emotionally charged depiction of Christ revealing that one of his disciples will betray him. Visitors often remark on the serene yet powerful atmosphere of the space, allowing for a deep appreciation of the artwork's historical and artistic merit.
Unlike many other 'Last Supper' depictions, Castagno's fresco is remarkably well-preserved, offering a vivid glimpse into Renaissance art. The scale of the work is impressive, filling an entire wall and drawing the viewer into the dramatic moment. It's a testament to the skill of the artist and the enduring power of religious art to inspire and provoke thought.
A Glimpse into Monastic Life
Visiting this site provides a sense of tranquility that is often hard to find in bustling Florence. The quiet ambiance allows for a more personal connection with the history and the art. It's a reminder of a different era, where art and spirituality were deeply intertwined with daily existence. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to have such a significant historical site feel almost like a private discovery, given its relatively lower visitor numbers compared to other Florentine attractions.
Beyond the main fresco, the site may also contain other remnants or exhibits related to the monastery's past. Exploring these elements can further enrich your understanding of the convent's history and its role in the community. It's a place that encourages a slower pace, inviting you to absorb the atmosphere and imagine the lives of those who walked these halls centuries ago.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit