Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie - Image 1

Santa Maria delle Grazie

4.6
·491k reviews·Montepulciano, Italy

Home to Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' this Renaissance church is a Milanese treasure, blending art, history, and spirituality.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie - Image 1

Santa Maria delle Grazie

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Home to Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' this Renaissance church is a Milanese treasure, blending art, history, and spirituality.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-see masterpiece, but book tickets months in advance!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book 'The Last Supper' Early

Tickets vanish months in advance! Book online via the official site to secure your spot.

🧥 Dress Code for Church

Cover shoulders and knees. It's a sacred place, so dress respectfully.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Last Supper

The Last Supper

Refectory

Leonardo da Vinci's iconic fresco, a breathtaking depiction of Jesus' final meal with his apostles.

Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie

Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie

Main Church

A stunning Renaissance church with a beautiful dome and intricate architectural details.

Cloisters

Cloisters

Convent Courtyards

Peaceful courtyards offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the convent's history.

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Planning Your Visit

Book The Last Supper Tickets Far in Advance

Da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' is a must-see, but tickets sell out months ahead. Book online via the official website to avoid disappointment. Consider guided tours for deeper insights into this masterpiece.

Respect the Sacred Space

Santa Maria delle Grazie is an active church. Dress modestly, maintain a quiet demeanor, and be mindful of ongoing services. Photography restrictions are strictly enforced inside the refectory.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on exterior
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨Mercatini da non perdere nel centro Italia 📍Montepulciano: in uno dei borghi più belli della Toscana prende vita un mercatino meraviglioso con tante casette in legno ed oggetti artigianali🛍️ 🗓️16 novembre - 6 gennaio . 📍Arezzo: Il mercatino tirolese più grande d’Italia nella splendida cornice di Piazza Grande saprà stupirvi tra bancarelle e giochi di luce. 🗓️16 novembre - 6 gennaio 📍Grazzano Vi...
@marta_unavaligiadisogni
31.4K likes • 705.4K views

🎯 Book 'The Last Supper' Early

Tickets vanish months in advance! Book online via the official site to secure your spot. Instagram

🧥 Dress Code for Church

Cover shoulders and knees. It's a sacred place, so dress respectfully. Instagram

Sunset in Montepulciano, Tuscany ❤️🇮🇹
@meolafrancesco
23.1K likes • 292.2K views
É na lindíssima igreja de Santa Maria delle Grazie, em Milão, que se encontra a Santa Ceia (ou Última Ceia), de Leonardo da Vinci. Uma das pinturas mais famosa do gênio italiano. Pintada entre 1495 e 1498 no refeitório do convento, a obra retrata o momento em que Jesus revela que será traído por um dos apóstolos. Da Vinci trouxe emoção e movimento a cada figura, criando uma narrativa visual que ...
turistando.in
580 likes • 17.1K views

🚫 No Photography Inside

Strictly no photos allowed of 'The Last Supper'. Be mindful of signs. Instagram

⏳ Arrive on Time

Entry is timed for 'The Last Supper'. Arrive a bit early to find the entrance. Reddit

The last Mass of Saint Padre Pio on September 22, 1968 celebrated in the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. He died the next day on September 23, 1968 at age 81. St. Pio is known for having the stigmata, visions, and the gift of healing others. His feast day is September 23rd. St. Padre Pio, pray for us. “Pray, hope, and don’t worry” - Padre Pio • • • #Jesus #Mary #Catholic #Church #CatholicChur...
slg_religious_store
58.4K likes • 514.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book 'The Last Supper' Early

Tickets vanish months in advance! Book online via the official site to secure your spot. Instagram

🧥 Dress Code for Church

Cover shoulders and knees. It's a sacred place, so dress respectfully. Instagram

🚫 No Photography Inside

Strictly no photos allowed of 'The Last Supper'. Be mindful of signs. Instagram

⏳ Arrive on Time

Entry is timed for 'The Last Supper'. Arrive a bit early to find the entrance. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Basilica

Don't just see the fresco; admire the beautiful Renaissance architecture of the church itself. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Santa Maria delle Grazie is overwhelmingly praised for housing Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' a truly awe-inspiring masterpiece. Visitors consistently highlight the profound impact of seeing the fresco, though many lament the extremely limited viewing time and the difficulty in securing tickets. The Basilica itself is also appreciated for its Renaissance architecture and spiritual ambiance.

What People Like

Iconic 'The Last Supper' fresco
Beautiful Renaissance architecture
Spiritual atmosphere

What People Dislike

Strictly limited viewing time
Tickets sell out fast
No photography inside

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Santa Maria delle Grazie is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram lines 18 or 24, or bus lines 50 or 94 to the 'Santa Maria delle Grazie' stop. The closest metro stations are Conciliazione (Line M1) and Cadorna (Lines M1 & M2), both a short walk away. TikTokInstagram

Parking in Milan can be challenging and expensive. While there might be some street parking, it's often limited. It's recommended to use public transport or a taxi to reach the church. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 20-25 minutes from the Duomo through the city center. It's a great way to see more of Milan. Instagram

The most convenient way is via Milan's public transportation system (trams, buses, or metro). This avoids the hassle of parking and traffic. TikTok

Information on wheelchair accessibility can vary. It's best to check the official website or contact the venue directly for the most up-to-date details regarding access for visitors with disabilities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for 'The Last Supper' must be purchased in advance, ideally months ahead, through the official ticketing website. Avoid third-party sellers as they may overcharge or sell invalid tickets. InstagramReddit

The Basilica is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. 'The Last Supper' viewing has strict timed entry slots. Always check the official website for the most current opening hours and viewing times. Instagram

Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around €15-€20 for standard admission. Guided tours may cost more. Check the official ticketing site for exact pricing. Reddit

It is highly unlikely to get tickets for 'The Last Supper' on the same day. They sell out extremely quickly, often months in advance. Booking ahead is essential. Instagram

A ticket for 'The Last Supper' typically includes access to the refectory to view the fresco and sometimes access to the church itself. Guided tours may offer additional insights. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Your viewing time for 'The Last Supper' is strictly limited to about 15 minutes to manage crowds and preserve the artwork. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are highly recommended for 'The Last Supper' and the Basilica. They offer valuable historical context and art historical insights. InstagramReddit

As it is a functioning church, visitors are expected to dress modestly. This means covering shoulders and knees. Instagram

Photography is strictly prohibited inside the refectory where 'The Last Supper' is located. You may be able to take photos in other parts of the Basilica, but always check for signage. Instagram

The Basilica itself is a Renaissance architectural gem, designed in part by Bramante. Explore its beautiful dome, cloisters, and chapels. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the area around Santa Maria delle Grazie has many restaurants, cafes, and trattorias offering a range of Italian cuisine. You can find options for quick bites or more leisurely meals. Reddit

No, eating or drinking is not permitted inside the church or the refectory where 'The Last Supper' is displayed. There are designated areas outside or nearby cafes for refreshments. Reddit

You'll find traditional Milanese dishes like Risotto alla Milanese and Cotoletta alla Milanese, as well as classic Italian pasta and pizza. Reddit

Look for 'trattorias' or 'pizzerias' slightly off the main tourist paths for more affordable meals. Many cafes also offer panini and pastries. Reddit

For popular restaurants, especially during peak tourist season, booking a table in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely not. Photography, including with mobile phones, is strictly forbidden inside the refectory to protect Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece. Instagram

The exterior of the Basilica, especially the dome and facade, offers great photo opportunities. The cloisters can also provide beautiful architectural shots. Instagram+1

Late afternoon light can be beautiful for photographing the exterior, casting a warm glow on the Renaissance architecture. TikTok

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for exterior shots. Since no photos are allowed inside, you don't need specialized equipment for the artwork itself. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around historical sites in Milan. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Santa Maria delle Grazie with children can be a unique experience, though the strict 15-minute viewing time for 'The Last Supper' might be challenging for very young ones. Ensure children are aware of the no-photography rule and the need for quiet behavior inside the church. Reddit

Consider booking a family-friendly guided tour that can make the art and history more engaging for younger audiences. The Basilica's architecture and cloisters might offer more space for children to explore and appreciate. Pack snacks and drinks for before or after your visit, as these are not allowed inside. Instagram

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For those passionate about art and history, Santa Maria delle Grazie is a pilgrimage site. Focus on understanding Leonardo da Vinci's groundbreaking techniques and the historical context of 'The Last Supper.' Instagram

Opt for a guided tour that delves into art historical analysis and the fresco's restoration. Take time to study Bramante's architectural contributions to the Basilica and its significance in Renaissance design. Reading up on the various theories and controversies surrounding the fresco beforehand can also enhance the experience. InstagramReddit

⛪ Religious Visitors

Santa Maria delle Grazie holds spiritual significance, particularly for those interested in Saint Padre Pio, who celebrated his last Mass here. Visitors can attend Mass or find moments for quiet reflection within the Basilica. Instagram+1

The church offers a peaceful environment for prayer and contemplation. Understanding the religious history and the lives of saints associated with the site can add a profound dimension to your visit. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper'

Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' is arguably the most famous fresco in the world, painted between 1495 and 1498 in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This masterpiece depicts the dramatic moment when Jesus announces that one of his apostles will betray him, capturing the varied emotional reactions of each disciple. Da Vinci's innovative use of perspective and his deep understanding of human emotion brought an unprecedented level of realism and psychological depth to the artwork. Instagram+1

The fresco's condition has been a major concern due to Da Vinci's experimental technique, using tempera on dry plaster instead of true fresco. This led to rapid deterioration over the centuries, necessitating numerous restorations. The most recent and extensive restoration was completed in 1999, revealing more of Da Vinci's original work and colors. Despite its fragility, 'The Last Supper' remains a profound testament to Leonardo's genius and a cornerstone of Renaissance art. Instagram+1

Visiting 'The Last Supper' requires meticulous planning. Tickets are extremely limited and must be booked months in advance through the official website. Visitors are allowed only a brief 15-minute window to view the fresco, emphasizing its preciousness and the need for preservation. The experience, though short, is deeply impactful, offering a rare opportunity to stand before one of humanity's greatest artistic achievements. InstagramReddit

The Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie

The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie, adjacent to the refectory housing 'The Last Supper,' is a significant example of Lombard Renaissance architecture. Originally a Dominican convent, its most striking feature is the magnificent dome, designed by Donato Bramante, which was added in the late 15th century. Bramante's contribution transformed the existing Gothic church into a Renaissance masterpiece, characterized by its harmonious proportions and elegant design. Instagram

The church itself is a place of worship and historical importance, with several chapels and a serene atmosphere. It also holds a connection to Saint Padre Pio, who celebrated his last Mass here in 1968. Visitors can explore the basilica's nave, aisles, and cloisters, appreciating the architectural grandeur and the spiritual ambiance. The contrast between the solemnity of the church and the dramatic intensity of 'The Last Supper' offers a layered experience for visitors. Instagram+1

While 'The Last Supper' draws the majority of visitors, the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie deserves its own appreciation. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual resonance make it a worthwhile destination in its own right. It serves as a beautiful setting for Leonardo's work and stands as a testament to the artistic and religious heritage of Milan. Instagram

Visiting Tips from Travelers

Many travelers emphasize the absolute necessity of booking 'The Last Supper' tickets well in advance, often months ahead, as they sell out incredibly fast. Some visitors have been disappointed by last-minute cancellations or the inability to secure tickets at all, highlighting the importance of planning. InstagramReddit

When visiting, remember that Santa Maria delle Grazie is an active church. Adhering to the dress code (covering shoulders and knees) is crucial for entry into the church and the refectory. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the refectory, and visitors are reminded of this rule upon entry. Instagram+1

Beyond the fresco, many recommend taking time to appreciate the Basilica's architecture and cloisters. Some also suggest looking into guided tours, as they provide deeper context and a more enriching experience of both the artwork and the building. InstagramReddit

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