Milan Attractions

Santa Maria delle Grazie

Located next to the church in the former monastery's refectory is Leonardo da Vinci's famous painting, The Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano). The fresco depicts the moment of Christ's revelation of the betrayal. Judas hovers to the right of the painting with his hand placed protectively on the bag of silver. Scaffolding covers the bottom of the painting (an ongoing restoration project), leaving the rest in full view. Controversy has erupted over the removal of layers of corrective over-painting completed in the 18th and 19th centuries. The painting has endured more than hot debate however as it escaped the bombing during WWII that destroyed the roof of the refectory.

Address: Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie 2, Corso Magenta; Website: www.cenacolovinciano.it/html/eng/smgrazie.htm; Telephone: (02) 8942 1146; Transport: Tram 24, subway to Conciliazione or Cadorna; Opening time: Tuesday to Sunday 8.15am to 7.30pm. Reservations are essential and visitors must arrive 15 minutes before allocated time of visit; Admission: Church free; Painting €6.50 plus €1.50 reservation fee