Santa Maria delle Grazie
Lombardia
Santa Maria delle Grazie is a historic church and Dominican convent in Milan, Italy, renowned worldwide as the home of Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper. The complex was initially commissioned by Duke Francesco I Sforza in the mid-15th century, with architect Guiniforte Solari designing the Gothic nave completed by 1469. Later, Duke Ludovico Sforza transformed the church into the Sforza family mausoleum, commissioning significant Renaissance additions, including the apse attributed to Donato Bramante. The church's architecture blends Gothic and early Renaissance styles, with notable features such as the white marble portal and classical decorations contrasting with the brick facade. The convent's refectory preserves Leonardo’s The Last Supper mural, which survived World War II bombings due to protective measures and has undergone extensive restoration to mitigate deterioration. Today, the Old Sacristy designed by Bramante serves as a cultural center hosting conferences, concerts, and exhibitions. The church remains an active place of worship and a symbol of Milan's rich artistic and religious heritage.
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Tipp: To best experience Santa Maria delle Grazie, book tickets in advance to secure access to the Last Supper mural, as visitor numbers are limited. Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds. The church is open for religious services, and attending a mass can add a spiritual dimension to your visit. Consider exploring the cultural events hosted at the Old Sacristy for deeper engagement. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website for current opening hours and special events.
Interessante Fakten
- •Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its Renaissance art and architecture.
- •Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper mural is located in the convent's refectory and is one of the most studied artworks in the world.
- •The church served as the burial site for the Sforza family, Milanese rulers during the Renaissance.
- •The Last Supper survived World War II bombings due to protective sandbags placed around the mural.
- •The Old Sacristy, designed by Donato Bramante, now functions as a cultural center hosting various events.
Geschichte
The construction of Santa Maria delle Grazie began in 1463 on the site of a prior chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The Gothic convent was completed by 1469 under Guiniforte Solari.
The church's Renaissance apse and cloister were added after 1490 under Ludovico Sforza, who also intended it as a family mausoleum.
Donato Bramante is credited with designing parts of the apse and the Old Sacristy in the 1490s.
The church suffered damage during a 1943 World War II bombing but the Last Supper mural was preserved thanks to sandbagging.
Restoration efforts from 1978 to 1999 have helped preserve Leonardo’s work for future generations.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
Refectory with The Last Supper1495-1498
The refectory houses Leonardo da Vinci's monumental mural The Last Supper, depicting Jesus and his disciples during the moment of betrayal. Despite centuries of damage and restorations, it remains a masterpiece of Renaissance art and a highlight of the church.
Old Sacristy (Sacrestia Vecchia)1492-1493
Designed by Donato Bramante in the late 15th century, the Old Sacristy is an architectural jewel of early Renaissance style. It now serves as a cultural center hosting spiritual, philosophical, artistic, and musical events.
Church Nave and Facade1460s-1490s
The church's nave is a Gothic basilica with three wide aisles and vaulted ceilings, designed by Guiniforte Solari. The facade features a white marble portal with classical motifs contrasting with the brickwork, reflecting the transition from Gothic to Renaissance styles.
Kontakt
Telefon: 02 467 6111
