Santa Maria delle Grazie
About Santa Maria delle Grazie
Located in the center of the city, Santa Maria delle Grazie is one of the most attractive churches with a significant history that spans centuries. Declared a World Heritage Site, the site is famous for being home to the world’s famous Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece — The Last Supper.
The church, which also happens to be the convent, has witnessed many wars and historical events. Today, it’s a tourist hotspot and one of the famous attractions in Milan, Italy. Its close proximity to the city’s center and shopping streets makes it an excellent place for tourists to learn about Milan’s history. Let’s see what Santa Maria delle Grazie has in store for you.
There are seven chapels on each side. These were primarily used for burial and worshipping purposes in the past. Among the many Italian artists involved in the renovation and decoration of this church, the most prominent name is Gaudenzio Ferrari. He used frescoes to decorate the Adoring Crown and Holy Virgin. The church was also home to Tiziano Vecellio’s painting “The Crowning With Thorns,” but the Napoleans took it, and it is now displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris.
The architecture is a beautiful blend of the Gothic and Renaissance styles. The heavy stonework reflects the Gothic architecture, while the additions made by Donato Bramante were based on the Renaissance style. As you enter the church, you will find many beautiful chapels with the ceiling adorned with frescoes.
History of Santa Maria delle Grazie
This iconic site’s history dates back to the 15th century, although construction began much earlier, in the 14th century. It was a chapel until Francesco Sforza donated the place to the Dominicans to initiate the construction of a church and a convent.
The construction project was given to Guiniforte Solari, who finished it in 1469. Since then, the church has undergone renovations multiple times. Later, Donato Bramante, a famous Italian architect, was hired to redesign the church.
He added a dome, refectory, cloister, and apses under Duke Ludovico Sforza’s order. The parts of the church, including the library inside, were heavily destroyed during World War II. Despite the destructions, the churche’s most iconic and prized possession, Leonardo da Vinci’s painting, remained intact.
Today, the church serves as a place of worship and historical beauty, housing the world’s famous paintings and stunning artwork by popular Italian artists.
Tips for your visit to Santa Maria delle Grazie
Make the best of your visit to this World Heritage Site in Milan with these tips:
- The church is open to tourists from 8:15 AM to 7 PM, but the best time to explore it is around 4 PM. It remains closed on Mondays and public holidays, so check its opening times before planning a visit.
- The opening hours are extended to 10 PM on certain days and when special events, like Milan Expo 2015, are held.
- You are advised to book your tickets in advance.
- The best time to visit the church is during spring (April to October) when the weather is pleasant.
- The area around the church is lined with bars, restaurants, and shopping streets. So, after exploring the chapels, don’t forget to grab a bite. You can try Ristorante Bianca and Tutto bene, Grazie Bistrò.
- Join Santa Maria delle Grazie guided tours to understand its history in detail.
- There’s no specific dress code, but modest dresses are recommended, as it’s a religious site.
- Do not use your cameras in the refectory that houses Leonardo da Vinci’s painting.
Santa Maria delle Grazie Tickets
The church’s entry is free, but you must make reservations beforehand to see The Last Supper painting. Tickets can be purchased online through the church’s official website or from an authorized seller. Make sure there’s a 15-minute window for each group to see the painting.
The ticket costs around 15 Euros, but the price can be adjusted based on whether you are visiting alone or in the Santa Maria delle Grazie walking tours. You must book the tickets for the Last Supper in advance, at least 2-3 weeks ahead of your visit, as the place remains crowded.
How to arrive at Santa Maria delle Grazie
So, are you ready to explore Santa Maria delle Grazie church? Here’s how you can arrive:
By Metro: Take a train to the Conciliazione station on Line 1. The church is a 5-7 minute walk from the station.
By Tram: Tram 16 stops at Santa Maria delle Grazie church, so if you don’t want to walk, that’s your best bet.
By Bus: Like the Tram, Bus 61 directly stops at Santa Maria delle Grazie.On Foot: The church is a 20-25-minute walk from Duomo. If you want to go sightseeing, walking to the church is the best option.
