Leonardo da Vinci used experimental dry-wall techniques, causing the mural to begin deteriorating within a few years of completion.
The refectory was used as a stable by French troops under Napoleon in 1796.
During World War II, sandbags protected 'The Last Supper' from Allied bombing, though the refectory roof was destroyed.
The church is technically a Dominican convent, with the 'Grazie' referring to the Virgin Mary.
Donato Bramante’s tribune was designed to accommodate the funeral monument of the Sforza family, which was never fully realized.
The Last Supper was cleaned over 21 years in a restoration effort completed in 1999, removing layers of previous repairs.
The mural occupies the entire north wall of the refectory, measuring approximately 4.6 by 8.8 meters.
The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a cornerstone of Renaissance architecture. The refectory of the adjacent convent houses Leonardo da Vinci’s mural, 'The Last Supper,' painted between 1495 and 1498. The church was commissioned by Duke Ludovico Sforza, who intended it to serve as a burial place for his family. Architect Donato Bramante designed the tribune and the large dome, which exhibit sophisticated proportions typical of the period. The mural is painted on a dry wall rather than using the traditional fresco technique, which resulted in significant preservation challenges throughout the centuries. The site survived heavy bombing during World War II, although much of the surrounding convent complex was destroyed. The church underwent a major restoration in the late 20th century to stabilize the wall painting. Visitors must cross the cloister to access the refectory where the artwork is displayed.
The internal cloister offers the best perspective of the church’s architecture without the crowds.
Reservations are mandatory months in advance to view the painting.
Arrive 20 minutes before your designated entry slot for security checks.
Photography is permitted inside the refectory, but the use of flash is strictly forbidden.
Do not attempt to arrive without a pre-booked ticket, as walk-ins are never accepted.
Closed on Mondays and major public holidays.
Maintain silence within the refectory; modest dress is expected as it is an active place of worship.
