Visiting the Museo Cenacolo Vinciano
The final meal shared between Jesus and his apostles is arguably one of the most famous paintings in the world. The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci is a singular work, standing among the most masterful creations in history. While many mysteries still surround it, seeing it in person is straightforward. It resides at the Museo Cenacolo Vinciano, an exhibition space located in the refectory of the former Dominican convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. In the heart of Milan, a luminous city of art and culture in Lombardy, this Gothic structure features an apse with a 65-foot dome that rises to 130 feet. The architecture is striking and makes for a brilliant visit in every respect.
An 8.80-meter wall of genius and mystery
Since the Middle Ages, many monastery dining halls have been decorated with a depiction of the Last Supper. At Santa Maria delle Grazie, at the request of Ludovico Sforza, the Duke of Milan, Leonardo da Vinci began his work in 1494 and likely finished it in 1498. The painter was already the most popular artist of his time. The work is exceptional, a mural 4.60 meters (15 feet) high and 8.80 meters (29 feet) wide that seems to extend the room itself, radiating a sense of life that is hypnotic. Jesus sits at the center of a table with the twelve apostles. It is his last meal before his crucifixion, and da Vinci captured the varied reactions of the men after the announcement of an upcoming betrayal. Experts still analyze its enigmas, and the wear of time has only added an aura of mystery to this fragile masterpiece. Created with tempera and oil, it has required extensive restoration to recover its colors. Visits are conducted in small groups within a sumptuous basilica that features a monumental tribune by Bramante. The entire site, which includes the Crucifixion by Giovanni Donato Montorfano, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
This small basilica is nothing exceptional, except for the fact that it houses the famous work by Da Vinci, The Last Supper. A must-see in Milan. It is true that the painting is not necessarily displayed in the best way. Despite the limited number of visitors, it is extremely crowded. You absolutely must book your ticket in advance.