how to visit last supper milan

How to See The Last Supper in Milan

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Leonardo da Vinci's painting of The Last Supper is one of Italy's most famous artworks and one of the country's most visited sights, making it one of the top sites in Italy you should book in advance . Order your tickets as soon as you know your date (you can do it up to 4 months in advance) to see Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece inside the refectory of the Santa Maria della Grazie church in Milan.

How to Buy Tickets for The Last Supper

Reservations are required all year and tickets can only be booked up to four months in advance but usually sell out very quickly. The official ticket site, Cenacolo Vinciano , releases tickets for sale for periods of two to four months in advance. For example, in mid-December, it's possible to buy tickets for timed entry slots in February, March or April. Tickets cost €10 for adults, plus a €2 service charge. Tickets are free for those under 18 but a reservation is still required and the €2 service charge applies.

If you show up without a ticket, your only hope of gaining entry is if someone with a reservation doesn't show up and you can grab their spot.

If you'd like to take a tour, or are too late to get an advance reservation, Viator offers a Milan Last Supper Tour with a local guide that includes guaranteed tickets .

If you have a hotel booked already, you might try contacting them to see if they can get tickets for you. Sometimes hotels, especially higher-end hotels, book tickets in advance for guests.

Important Visiting Information for The Last Supper

Only 25 people can view The Last Supper at one time, for a maximum of 15 minutes. You must arrive in advance of your scheduled time in order to be admitted. Visitors must be dressed in appropriate attire for entering a church.

Santa Maria della Grazie Church is 5 to 10 minutes away from the train station by taxi or about a 15-minute walk from the Duomo. To get to Santa Maria della Grazie by public transportation , take the Metro Red line to Conciliazione or the Green line to Cadorna. 

The museum is closed on Mondays.

Want to Know More About the Last Supper?

Leonardo completed his painting of The Last Supper, or Cenacolo Vinciano , in 1498 in the refectory of Santa Maria della Grazie church, where it still resides. Yes, the monks ate in the shadow of The Last Supper. The church and convent of Santa Marie della Grazie have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Leonardo da Vinci in Italy

Da Vinci left his mark with frescoes, drawings, and inventions in Florence and other Italian cities as well as in Milan. Follow the Leonardo da Vinci Trail in Italy to find out where to see more of his works.

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Guide To Leonardo’s The Last Supper & How To See It in Milan

If you’re a fan of the Renaissance visiting Milan, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper is a must-see.

The Last Supper is one of the world’s most famous paintings, located in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This billboard size fresco rivals the fame of the Mona Lisa .

Not only is The Last Supper famous, it’s a fascinating and spellbinding artwork surrounded by mysteries and legends.

The Last Supper is as renowned for its fragility as its power. It’s a violent art history tale of great triumph and great tragedy.

In this guide, I’ll share essential tips for visiting — what to expect, how to get tickets, how to get to the museum, and other details. I’ll also tell tell you about the history and restoration of the painting.

Reservations are mandatory. If you haven’t booked tickets already … it may be too late.

READ : All of Leonardo da Vinci’s Paintings

How To See Leonardo’s The Last Supper

Visiting The Last Supper isn’t easy. You’ve got to be organized and pre-book well in advance. Here are all my tips for seeing Leonardo’s The Last Supper .

1. Where Is The Last Supper ?

The Last Supper is housed in the Museum Cenacolo Vinciano of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan . The church and the museum are a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The church is an easy 10 minute walk from the Milano Cadorna station, next to Castello Sforzesco. Or just a 15 minute walk from the Duomo.

The museum is open Tuesday though Sunday from 8:15 am to 6:45 pm and closed Mondays.

Here’s the Google Map address: Cenacolo Vinciano Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2 20100 MILANO (MI)

2. How To Buy or Get Tickets For The Last Supper

The church is open to the public and can be visited year-round. But admission to The Last Supper is highly regulated.

You won’t see the masterpiece without pre-booking your tickets. The Last Supper is one of Europe’s most in demand sites.

Tickets notoriously sell out quickly, sometimes months in advance. Only 30 visitors are allowed in per 15 minute time slot and many of those tickets are allocated to tour groups.

You can book online through the official website of the museum. The website shows the dates and times for which tickets are available.

You can only buy a maximum of 5 tickets. Tickets cost 15 € per person, plus a 2 € advance booking fee. You can also book a 20 minute audio guide for 3.50 €.

I suggest booking a month in advance.

But you can book up to 90 days in advance, to be on the safe side. The Last Supper is “Cenacolo Vinciano” in Italian. That’s how it will be listed online and on your ticket.

When purchasing your ticket, you’ll have to register your name with an account. You’ll be required to show a valid ID at the start of your visit. Show up at least 15 minutes in advance. If you’re late, you’ll miss the show.

If you can’t get tickets on the official website, you have a couple options. You can also get tickets on Get Your Guide or tickets on Tiqets , a re-seller of The Last Supper tickets (it will be much more expensive, of course). If you’ve purchased the Milan City Pass , it includes Last Supper tickets.

You may want to book a guided tour. That’s probably the best way to score a scarce ticket. Here are some options:

• 3 hour walking tour of Milan with Last Supper ticket
• 1.5 hour guided tour plus ticket
• 2 hour Renaissance tour plus ticket
• 1.25 hour tour of the Last Supper and church

If you purchase a guided tour, allow ample time to find your guide. There is one English tour per day at the site at 9:30 am. You can book it online when you buy your ticket for an extra 3.50 €.

3. What To Expect On Your Tour of The Last Supper

When you get to Santa Marie della Grazia, you enter via a side door. You can also go in the main church later for free. But you can’t access the refectory, which houses the The Last Supper, from the front door or the church itself.

You’re not allowed to bring any backpacks, handbags, or drinks into the refectory. There are small lockers at the ticket office to leave your items.

Once inside, you’ll go through security. Everything is strictly time controlled, with doors opening to let you into different waiting rooms via timers.

The Last Supper is hermetically sealed to prevent more damage. You’ll pass through an airlock intended to de-humidify and purify you.

The painting is in a low lit sparsely decorated refectory. You can’t get too close. There’s a barrier. You can take photos without a flash.

On the opposite wall is another fresco, the Crucifixion , painted by Giovanni Donato da Montorfano in the 1490s.

It’s believed that Leonardo painted the figures of the Duke of Milan and his consort. You might consider looking at the Crucifixion first, while everyone rushes headlong to The Last Supper.

You only get 15 minutes inside the refectory. You’ll definitely feel rushed.

Given that time limit, I would read up on The Last Supper (or pin this guide) before your visit so you know precisely what you’re looking at and can enjoy the moment.

Description & Mini History of The Last Supper

The Last Supper is a fresco telling a bible story. Leonardo painted The Last Supper in 1494-98.

The work is enormous, measuring 15 by 29 feet. It covers the entire wall of the refectory (dining hall) in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

The Last Supper depicts the last meal Jesus took with his apostles. The long table is crowded. Each figure is unique and memorable, all facing the viewer. Judas holds a bag of silver that was his bribe money.

Christ is in the center, with a window frame serving as his halo. The fresco shows the climactic moment after Christ announces his imminent death, saying “One of you will betray me.”

Doubt is in the air. No one knows who the villain is yet.

A wave of emotion roils through the group. Thus begins the Passion of Christ, that ends with his crucifixion.

The Duke of Milan, Ludovico Sforza, commissioned the painting for the Dominican friars of Santa Maria delle Grazie. At the time, Leonardo was 42.

He was well known. But Leonardo had had a rather mediocre career, failing to finish many commissions. Leonardo sought to repair his reputation with The Last Supper .

Even though The Last Supper was a wall painting, Leonardo didn’t paint it the favored fresco style, buon fresco .

In buon fresco , an artist must paint rapidly on wet plaster (like Michelangelo did in the Sistine Chapel , for example.) The color becomes part of the wall itself and is very durable.

Apprenticed under Andrea del Verrocchio, Leonardo never learned this technique. Buon fresco also didn’t suit him. Leonardo was a perfectionist, a slow painter, and wanted the chromatic brilliance and variation of oil paint.

Ever the inventor, Leonardo used an experimental medium and stone primer to accommodate his preference. He used a mix of tempura and oil paints to paint fresco – secco , or on dry plaster.

But dry plaster isn’t as stable as wet plaster. The paint isn’t melded into the wall.

Leonardo’s new technique backfired spectacularly. It was a poor choice of materials for the damp refectory hall. Leonardo’s paint began to flake off the wall during his lifetime. After only 20 years, the painting was in bad shape.

After the Renaissance, the church was largely ignored. A door was even cut into the bottom of The Last Supper , eliminating part of the table and Christ’s feet.

The refectory flooded. Napoleon’s occupying troops threw bricks at the painting. The church was bombed in WWII. But the refectory survived intact, just damaged from damp, decay, neglect, and abuse.

Last Supper Restorations

Time hasn’t been kind to Leonardo’s ravaged mural. It became an endangered species, despite its fame. By 1951, there’d been 8 attempted restorations.

Most were botched. Mistakes piled up. By the 1970s, art historians were concerned that The Last Supper would crumble into oblivion.

In 1978, a new team, led by renowned Italian art restorer Pinin Brambilla, tackled the masterpiece once again. She removed five layers of paint, grime, grease, and dust — all of which were eating away at the Leonardo original — and did some overpainting.

Brambilla estimated that 50% of Leonardo’s brushstrokes remained. For the unsalvageable parts, she and her team used daubs of beige watercolor paint to fill in the blanks.

The marathon restoration took more than 20 years, during which the public couldn’t view the fresco.

Not surprisingly, the restoration received mixed reviews. Some critics dubbed it “The Lost Supper.”

They despised the overpainting and hated the “purist shedding” of earlier repaints, which they argued distorted the historical whole and integrity of the painting.

Others loved the restoration, not wishing to see a Leonardo “fake,” contaminated by other artists. They thought the luminosity and beauty of Leonardo’s original shone through once again.

Previously obscured details also reappeared, including the background landscape, the original white paint of the faces and hands, and the glasses and bread on the white tablecloth.

Copies of The Last Supper

Leonardo’s painting was hugely popular in his lifetime. It was the most copied painting of the century. There are two known exact replicas of The Last Supper .

One is a long forgotten, and reasonably well preserved, copy produced by Leonardo and his workshop. The effort was led by his student Andrea Solario.

Created in 1506-07, the replica may have been commissioned by Louis XII, who wanted his own Last Supper . But it never made it to France.

In 1545, the painting was purchased by the Abbey of Tongerlo in Belgium. The painting is nearly identical to Leonardo’s ruined original.

It’s suspected that Leonardo painted Christ and St. John. There are no telltale underdrawings. And the face of St. John resembles Leonardo’s Mona Lisa .

There’s also a full scale copy of Leonardo’s The Last Supper in the Royal Academy of Arts in London. It’s an oil on canvas executed circa 1520, attributed to Leonardo’s student Giampetrino. Brambilla studied it for her restoration. The painting includes several lost details, such as Christ’s feet.

In 2019, Italian marketplace chain Eataly introduced a further restoration. It sponsored installation of an air filtration system to filter cool clean air into the refectory and control its microclimate.

It was designed to reverse the years of air pollution, biological contamination, humidity, and mass tourism.

Still, humans are still a threat. Airborne fatty lipids from human skin can combine with dust in the air to soil the painting.

READ : Guide To the Leonardo Trail in Milan

Interpretation of The Last Supper : Why Is It Important?

The biblical story of The Last Supper had certainly been painted before. But Leonardo’s version was groundbreaking. Leonardo amped up the drama and eschewed the typical staid and lifeless renditions of the scene.

Leonardo’s painting seems alive. It’s a tour de force of emotional realism. The apostles reactions run the gamut of emotions. They’re in upheaval, using agitated gestures. Only a serene Christ is calm in a sea of chaos.

The villain Judas is shown in shadow and below the others. His head is slightly twisted, foreshadowing his suicide by hanging.

Thomas holds up his index finger questioningly. Interestingly, Raphael used this exact same gesture when he painted Leonardo as Plato in School of Athens , which is in the Vatican Museums .

Even more revolutionary, Leonardo portrays the apostles as everyday people, without the indicia of saints or holy men.

To underscore the realism, Leonardo set the world’s most iconic meal in 15th century Milan. The table, utensils, and tablecloth match those the friars used when they ate in the refectory.

Legend holds that Leonardo used faces of the people he knew or found on the streets for the apostles. He visited jails looking for the perfect person to embody the evil Judas. Some art historians think St. John the Less is a self portrait.

Leonardo also depicts the founding moment of the Eucharist. Christ expansively reaches out to the bread and wine.

He gives the disciples explicit instructions on how to remember him in the future using the metaphor of food and drink. Christians consider it the first celebration of the Eucharist.

A mathematician as well as painter, Leonardo’s The Last Supper is also a masterpiece of single point perspective. Every element directs attention to Christ’s head.

To achieve this effect, Leonardo placed a nail hole in the middle of the painting and pulled strings in radial directions to aid in his execution of the painting.

Hidden Meanings In The Last Supper

Unlike Dan Brown, da Vinci wasn’t into obscure symbols. But, like any painter, he us left us some tantalizing details in The Last Supper.

First, many have pondered who really sits at Christ’s right arm. The figure of St. John isn’t bearded or otherwise “masculine.” In fact, he looks quite feminine. This led some scholars to speculate that Da Vinci wasn’t depicting John at all, but rather Mary Magdalene.

But this is dubious. It would’ve been a blatant heresy on Leonardo’s part … in a room where monks would see the painting daily. Further, the bible itself places John, not Mary Magdalene, at the dinner.

Leonardo was also well known for painting androgynous men with luxuriant curls. And other artists have depicted St. John in a similar fashion.

The bread on the table is also an interesting tidbit. In 2007, an Italian musician found that the bread rolls and the apostles’ hands line up to make a 40 second musical composition. The painting’s architecture also reflects Pythagorean musical ratios.

The Last Supper contains a number of allusions to the number three. In Catholic art, three represents divinity or the Holy Trinity. There are 3 windows, the apostles are in 3 groups, and Jesus is given a triangular shape.

It’s also theorized that The Last Supper is a representation of the solar system and the zodiac. Each apostle reflects the characteristic the 12 signs. For example, Christ is the Sun illuminating the scene with his divine light. Judas stands in for Scorpio in the position of Mars, a sign of death.

It’s a a fascinating bit of complexity, designed by a brilliant polymath.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to seeing Leonardo’s The Last Supper in Milan. You may enjoy these other guides to fabulous art in Italy:

• Best Museums in Florence
• Best Museums in Rome
• Masterpieces of Florence
• Guide To Florence’s Uffizi Gallery
• Guide To Rome’s Borghese Gallery
• Masterpieces of the Vatican
• Michelangelo Frescos in the Sistine Chapel
• Piero della Francesco Trail in Italy
• Caravaggio Trail in Rome
• Bernini Trail in Rome

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Last Updated on January 16, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

How to Visit The Last Supper in Milan in 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Milan in 2024, a visit to see The Last Supper painting is an absolute must. Leonardo da Vinci’s renowned masterpiece is not only a symbol of art and history, but many say it’s also a transformative experience. In this guide, we share everything you need to know about how to visit the Last Supper in Milan, from where it is in the city (hint: it’s more tucked away than you may think!), the best way to get tickets, and more. 

Table of Contents

What is The Last Supper Painting?

The Last Supper is one of the most celebrated paintings in the world and is widely considered da Vinci’s masterpiece. It depicts the exact moment Jesus tells his 12 apostles that one among them will soon betray him. The artist conveyed the emotional scene beautifully, down to raw, genuine facial expressions. Over the course of four years in the late 15th century, da Vinci painted the enormous mural. Measuring 15 by 29 feet, it’s displayed on a wall inside Milan’s Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. He even invented an entirely new painting method to complete The Last Supper painting, needing more time for the paint to set than traditional fresco methods allowed.

Where is The Last Supper in Milan?

You can find The Last Supper painting in Milan , tucked away just slightly off the main tourist path at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. The church itself is easily accessible, as it’s in the heart of the city, close to several Milan hotels and other must-see Milan attractions . For example, as our informative map of Milan shows, it’s a 20-minute walk from the Milan Duomo . As far as where is The Last Supper painting within the church, it’s extremely well-protected, in order to preserve it. To reach it, all visitors must pass through a series of rooms and automatic doors. The last set of doors will open to the refectory, where the world-famous painting stands.

How to Visit The Last Supper Milan

As you prepare to buy Last Supper Milan tickets, it’s helpful to be familiar with the opening days and hours. The Last Supper painting welcomes visitors Tuesday through Sunday. Tuesday through Saturday, the hours are 8:15 am – 7:00 pm, while it’s open 2-7:00 pm on Sundays. Importantly, when you purchase a ticket, you’ll also be required to reserve a specific time.

In order to preserve the spectacular work and its unique painting technique, there is a special air-filtering system that controls the humidity levels in the room. There is also a limit on the number of visitors allowed inside the room at once. To help manage that, everyone gets a 15-minute viewing timeslot inside the refectory. Please note that while guests are permitted to take photos of the painting, flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited.

Self-guided Tours

If you opt to buy your own Last Supper tickets and take a self-guided tour, there are some important details to be aware of. Namely, the 15-minute experience is rather rushed, allowing just enough time to walk through the refectory and view The Last Supper. While this option offers the most flexibility, you may not get the full appreciation of the painting.

Guided Tours

If your brief self-guided visit leaves you wanting more, book a guided tour of The Last Supper in Milan. You get the benefit of expert insight and the chance to learn some of The Last Supper painting secrets. Plus, guided tours often come with skip-the-line privileges, saving you valuable time and helping you avoid the crowds. 

Last Supper Tickets

Last Supper tickets Milan include admission into the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, as well as the adjacent museum. All tickets are “standard,” granting access to the painting by reservation only. Visitors are put into groups of about 30 and have a 15-minute viewing window. These times are strictly enforced, so arrive at least 30 minutes early. 

If you’re hoping for skip-the-line tickets to The Last Supper, you’ll need to book a guided tour. It’s worth the additional cost, offering priority access and bypassing the lengthy lines. 

How to Get Last Supper Milan Tickets If They’re Sold Out

Securing Last Supper tickets can be challenging. Tickets on the official website sell out in minutes, and navigating it is tricky. They release tickets on a rolling basis, six weeks to four months in advance. There are also several third-party sites, but the sheer number of them is overwhelming — and it’s difficult to know which are legitimate. In-person tickets are rarely available, and lines are incredibly long anyway. If you’ve discovered that the Last Supper tickets are sold out on your chosen date, we’re here to help make it happen!

To ensure you get tickets to Last Supper Milan, book a guided tour with us. All our Last Supper Milan tours include skip-the-line tickets and guarantee your entry, even when tickets are sold out everywhere else. 

Recommended Last Supper Tours

Milan Walking Tour With Last Supper Skip-the-Line Tickets : Spend an afternoon visiting some of Milan’s most iconic landmarks, including the La Scala opera house and Sforza Castle, in addition to The Last Supper.

Da Vinci’s Last Supper Skip-the-Line Guided Tour : Enjoy a hassle-free tour of the Last Supper in Milan with skip-the-line tickets and a knowledgeable professional guide. 

Enhance Your Italy Trip With a Tour of the Last Supper in Milan

Seeing The Last Supper painting in person is a must, but as you can see, it’s extremely important that you plan ahead to avoid disappointment. To make the most of your visit to this charismatic city, book a guided tour of Milan . Better yet, consider booking a multi-day Milan package tour . These include all the best guided tours of Milan , ideal Milan accommodations , and often, excursions to other iconic attractions and destinations across Italy.

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• Milan Attractions
• Last Supper Milan
• Santa Maria delle Grazie
• Plan Your Visit
• Skip the Line Tours
• Guided Tours
• Duomo Milan
• Milan to Lake Como Tours
• Castello Sforzesco
• Malpensa Airport transfers
• Malpensa Express Milan
• Leonardo3 Museum
• La Scala Theatre Tickets
• Villa Necchi Campiglio
• MuSt : Museum of Science and Technology
• Autostradale Milan
• Bergamo Airport transfers
• Linate Airport transfers
• Hard Rock Café Milan
• QC Terme Milano
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours

Visit Last Supper | The classic painting of history's most famous dinner

Last supper - visitor information at a glance.

• What are The Last Supper 's general opening hours? The Last Supper is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday: 8:15am to 7pm. The last access is granted at 6:45pm. It is closed on Mondays, New Year’s Day, and Christmas Day.
• Where is The Last Supper located? The Last Supper is located within the Santa Maria delle Grazie monastery in Milan, Italy.
• How many visitors are allowed inside The Last Supper have? The Last Supper typically allows 15 visitors at one time for preservation purposes.
• How many visitors does The Last Supper see per year? The Last Supper is a highly sought-after attraction, but specific annual visitor statistics may vary. For the most accurate figures, it's recommended to check with official sources or the attraction itself.

Last Supper opening hours

• General Timings : Tuesday - Sunday : 8:15am to 7pm Last Access : 6:45pm Closed on : Monday, New Year’s Day, May 1st and Christmas Day.
• Duration of Visit: The refractory which houses The Last Supper painting is limited to groups of 25 people for a period of 15 minutes.

How to visit The Last Supper in Milan?

Best time to visit last supper milan.

The best time to visit The Last Supper in Milan is during the spring season which falls between April and May. The city will also be less crowded and you will have a better chance of getting tickets to see the Last Supper in Milan. The weather during these months is pleasant and you can enjoy many sightseeing and outdoor activities in the city.

Where is Last Supper painting located?

Address: Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 20123 Milano MI, Italy Find on Map

Closest landmark: Leonardo's Vineyard (800 Meters)

The Last Supper painting is located on the north wall of the refectory in Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. The Last Supper is located right opposite Leonardo’s vineyard which is also open to visitors. Santa Maria delle Grazie is very close to Milan's city center and easily accessible by public transport.

How to reach The Last Supper painting in Milan?

By Public transportation

• By Metro: Take Line 1 (Red Line) and get off at the Conciliazione station. The Last Supper is a short walk from the metro station.
• By Tram: Tram Line 16 stops near the Last Supper. The tram stops right in front of the Santa Maria delle Grazie.
• By Bus: Bus Lines 50 and 169 also serve the Last Supper. Get off at the Via Boccaccio, which is a short walk from The Last Supper.

From Milan Cathedral, head northwest on Via Carlo Maria Martini toward Via Francesco Pecorari. Continue onto Via Silvio Pellico and merge onto SS35 (Tangenziale Est) via the ramp to Venezia. Continue onto Via Silvio Pellico and merge onto SS35 (Tangenziale Est) via the ramp to Venezia. Take the exit toward Viale Enrico Forlanini, turn onto Corso XXII Marzo, and then follow local streets to Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, where The Last Supper is located. Parking facilities are available nearby:

• Parcheggio Zenale,  210 m  away
• Magenta Parking,  260 m  away

Know before you visit The Last Supper painting

• Book your tickets in advance:  Purchase skip-the-line tickets online in advance through authorized platforms. These tickets allow you to bypass the regular queue, saving you time and ensuring a smoother entry. You can select the date and time of your choice and reserve the slot based on your preference.
• Guided tours: Consider booking guided tours that include skip-the-line access. Many tour operators offer guided experiences that prioritize skip-the-line entry, providing valuable insights from expert guides.
• Go early or late:  Opt for early morning or late afternoon time slots, as they tend to be less crowded. This can help you avoid peak visitor hours.

• Visitor center: There's a visitor center where you can gather information, purchase tickets, and get assistance from staff.
• Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available throughout the premises for visitors.
• Gift shop: A gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs related to The Last Supper and Leonardo da Vinci.
• Audio guides: Audio guides are often available for rent, providing informative commentary during your visit.
• Cloakroom: A cloakroom or storage area is available for storing bags or coats.
• Free multilingual brochures: Complimentary multilingual brochures are available at both the ticket office and the museum entrance.
• Official App of the Museum of The Last Supper : The Last Supper free app is accessible to enhance your visit; it's advisable to download it from the iOS and Android stores before reaching the museum.

• People with motor disabilities can easily access the Museum of The Last Supper tours.
• Ticket reductions are available for people with disabilities and accompanying persons with disabilities.
• The museum also has accessible main entrances, reserved parking for people with disabilities, a locker room for wheelchairs and seats along the museum routes.
• The attraction is accessible to people with motor disabilities, with ramps and elevators to facilitate movement.
• Inside the Refectory, there is a tactile model of The Last Supper. This provides visitors with visual impairments an opportunity to touch and feel the artwork, enhancing their understanding and experience.
• An audio description of The Last Supper is available on the museum's Android and iOS App. This feature aids visitors with visual impairments by providing detailed verbal descriptions of the artwork.
• Restrooms with accessibility features are available to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges.

• Entry to the Museum requires both a valid entrance ticket and compliance with the necessary security checks as part of the admission process.
• It is not permitted to bring in food and drinks, weapons and large objects.
• Bulky bags or luggage will not be allowed inside the museum, so you can leave them at home, at the hotel or inside one of the lockers provided.
• Playing music, even at low volume, is prohibited.
• Smoking is prohibited indoors and outdoors, including electronic cigarettes.
• Access to animals, except for guide dogs and therapeutic animals accompanied by medical certification, is prohibited.
• Engaging in any promotional or paid activity or service is not allowed.
• Taking professional photos or videos without prior written authorization from the Museum Management is not allowed.
• Please switch off cell phone ringtones inside the Refectory.

• Arrive on time: Be punctual for your entry slot to avoid delays.
• Maintain silence: Respect the tranquil atmosphere inside the Refectory.
• Follow your guide: Listen to tour guides for insights.
• Stay hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle, especially during hot months, as refreshment options may be limited inside.
• Check bag size: Verify bag size restrictions only small bags are allowed in advance to avoid any inconvenience at security.
• Explore nearby sites: Since you're in the area, explore other attractions in Milan, such as Sforza Castle or Milan Cathedral.
• Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you may be on your feet for a while during the visit.
• Mind other visitors: Be mindful of other visitors and their experience by refraining from loud conversations or disruptive behavior.
• Plan route ahead: Familiarize yourself with the location of The Last Supper and nearby facilities before your visit.

• Bar Il Cenacolo : A perfect brunch spot just  280 m  away from The Last Supper.
• Cafe Le Grazie : This Italian Cafe is a cute must-stop on your Last Supper excursion,  55 m  away from the venue.
• Galli Pizza & More : Enjoy variety of time-honored Italian Pizzas,  170 m  from Last Supper.
• El Paso De Los Toros:  Stop by if you seek Milan nightlife experience,  4.6 km  away.

• Budget : Hotel Palladio ( 4.7 km ), Hotel la Vignetta ( 3.9 km )
• Mid-range : B&B Hotel Milano Sant'Ambrogio ( 1.3 km ), B&B Hotel Milano City Center Duomo ( 1.7 km ), Lancaster Hotel ( 1.5 km )
• Luxury : Magna Pars L'Hotel a Parfum (  3 km ), Grand Hotel et de Milan ( 2.3 km ), Aethos Milan ( 2.8 km )

• Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco): A historic castle and former residence of the Duke of Milan, now housing several museums and art collections.
• Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano): A stunning Gothic cathedral and one of the largest in the world, known for its intricate architecture and impressive interior.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: A historic shopping arcade with luxury boutiques and cafes, featuring a stunning glass roof.
• La Scala Opera House (Teatro alla Scala): One of the world's most famous opera houses , renowned for its opera and ballet performances.
• Sempione Park: A large park near Sforza Castle, ideal for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
• Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology: A museum dedicated to the inventions and works of Leonardo da Vinci.
• Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio: An ancient church with a rich history, known for its Romanesque architecture.

Frequently asked questions about visiting The Last Supper in Milan

Ideally, it's best to book your tickets well in advance to ensure availability, preferably several weeks before your planned visit.

While the brief viewing time and preservation restrictions may challenge younger visitors, those with an interest in art, history, or religious stories can find the experience educational and engaging. Parents can enhance the visit by preparing children beforehand, discussing the painting's significance, and exploring interactive learning opportunities.

Unfortunately, re-entry is not allowed, so make sure you've seen everything you want before exiting.

The Last Supper painting is a renaissance masterpiece painted by Leonardo da Vinci. The painting shows the impeccable skills and clever use of perspective by da Vinci.

Public transportation, such as trams and the metro, is very convenient. Taxis are also readily available, or you can take a leisurely walk if you're staying nearby.

Yes, The Last Supper Milan is accessible for specially abled people. The site is equipped with accessibility features to accommodate visitors with motor disabilities. Additionally, there is a tactile model of The Last Supper inside the Refectory, and audio descriptions of the painting are available through the museum's Android and iOS app, enhancing the experience for those with visual impairments.

Yes, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting this historic site. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed, and your knees and shoulders must be covered at all times.

Strollers and prams are generally not allowed inside the Refectory to protect the artwork.

Yes, you can. But to protect the painting, flash photography is typically not permitted inside the Refectory.

No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks to The Last Supper Milan. Visitors are typically not allowed to consume food or beverages inside the Refectory where the Last Supper is located. It's recommended to enjoy meals and refreshments outside the site before or after your visit.

To schedule a free visit (without a guide) for your class, you can complete the request form online, indicating your preferred date and time.

It is highly recommended to leave them at home or at the hotel. In case of necessity and subject to availability, there are timed lockers at the ticket office, with a maximum usage time of 60 minutes per visit.

• The Museums of Milan
• Leonardo's Last Supper Tickets

Leonardo's Last Supper

A bit of history about the Leonardo's Last Supper

The Last Supper of Leonardo da Vinci (Cenacolo Vinciano) is one of the most famous paintings in the world. This artwork was painted between 1494 and 1498 under the government of Ludovico il Moro and represents the last "dinner" between Jesus and his disciples.

In order to create this unique work, Leonardo carried out an exhaustive research creating an infinity of preparatory sketches. Leonardo abandons the traditional method of fresco painting, painting the scene "dry" on the wall of the refectory. Traces of gold and silver foils have been found which testify to the artist's willingness to make the figures in a much more realistic manner, including precious details. After completion, his technique and environmental factor had contributed to the eventual deterioration of the fresco, which had undergone numerous restorations.

The most recent restoration was completed in 1999 where several scientific methods were used to restore the original colors as close as possible, and to eliminate traces of paint applied in previous attempts to restore the fresco.

What is the Leonardo's Last Supper nowadays?

Leonardo’s Last Supper is located in its original place, on the wall of the dining room of the former Dominican convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, exactly in the refectory of the convent and is one of the most celebrated and well known artworks in the world.

Leonardo Da Vinci's "Last Supper", a huge painting of 4.60 meters high and 8.80 meters wide was made with tempera and oil on a gypsum preparation instead of the technique commonly used in the fresco period.

Several measures have now been implemented to protect the paint from deterioration. To ensure that the fresco is maintained at room temperature, since the last restoration, visitor's' entry has been restricted to a group of 25 people every 15 minutes.

Curiosities about the Leonardo's Last Supper

Did you know that the great fame of this masterpiece has awaken the interest of many historians, researchers and novelists who seek to solve the supposed mysteries and enigmas that surround this painting. For example, in the books "The Templar Revelation" by Clive Prince and Lynn Picknett and in the novel Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code, it is affirmed that the figure to the right of Jesus is not the apostle John, but a female figure. The truth is that these mysteries and curiosities have not yet been solved.

Did you know that during the French Revolutionary War Napoleon's troops used the wall of the refectory to make target practice and during the Second World War in 1943 the bombings managed to tear off the roof of the old Dominican dining room leaving the paint in the open for several years.

Why visit the Leonardo's Last Supper?

The Last Supper of Leonardo da Vinci is undoubtedly one of the most important works of art of all times, both for its innovative approach and for the impact it has had on artists of all ages. This magnificent work of art has been seeing by Leonardo's contemporary artists as the "painting that speaks," something that had never happened before.

How to visit the Last Supper of Leonardo da Vinci?

The Last Supper of Leonardo da Vinci is undoubtedly one of the most interesting attractions in the city of Milan. The availability of tickets is very limited, so the advance reservation is considered "mandatory". Tickets to see this masterpiece can be booked online but must be sold as part of a package, so it is recommended to combine them with a Milan Audioguide , or with entries for the Brera Gallery or for the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana .

Naturally, it is also possible to book a guided tour that may also include visiting other churches or attractions located in the center of Milan.

It is also possible to request a visit with a private guide that includes, in addition to the entrance to the Last Supper, a visit to the adjacent Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Other attractions in the area

Milan is a big city full of surprises. On a short distance from Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper is the Duomo Square in the historic center of the city. In this square is located the famous gothic Cathedral of Milan and the statue of Victor Emanuel II erected in 1896 in honor to the king of Italy. Here you will also find the wonderful Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery, a shopping center full of cafes, restaurants and shops. After crossing this gallery you will arrive at the luxurious theater of the city of Milan, La Scala . A walk through a historic center simply unforgettable!

You may be interested in:

Colosseum (Rome), St Mark's Basilica (Venice) or Uffizi (Florence).

Book the entrance to the Last Supper with these combined tickets:

Leonardo's Last Supper and Milan audioguide

Leonardo's Last Supper and Brera Gallery

Last Supper and Pinacoteca Ambrosiana

Useful Information

From Tuesday to Saturday from 9.00 am to 7.00 pm.

On Sunday from 9.00 am to 1.45 pm

Max. 18 admitted every 15 minutes.

Closed Monday, New Year’s Day, May 1st and Christmas Day.

Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2 - Milan.

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How to buy tickets for the last supper in milan.

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Leonardo da Vinci’s genius cannot go unnoticed when gazing at the Last Supper. As it’s such a monumental work, everyone flocks to Milan to see it, so you have to purchase an entry ticket ahead of time to avoid missing out. 

How to buy tickets for the Last Supper in Milan isn’t as straightforward as you might think. From the brief ticket window available on the official site to the wealth of options from 3rd party providers, this may be a daunting task.

To make your Last Supper museum experience smooth sailing, here are all the key details to consider. By the end, you can tick off the Last Supper from your Milan itinerary.

Last Supper Tickets and Tours Quick Links

In a bit of a rush? Here are the top sites worth looking at for the Last Supper tickets:

• Cenacolo Vinciano (direct booking site) > Please note the scheduled booking dates for each season > The site can be challenging to navigate.
• Last Supper Tours on GetYourGuide (official partner site) > Easy to use and offers a great range of tickets and tours with a flexible booking policy.
• LivTours > Offers intimate very small group tours with a knowledgeable local guide > Get 5% off when using our code UNTOLDITALY .
• Take Walks > Provides fun small group guided tours of Milan and the Last Supper with skip-the-line access and a local guide.
• Last Supper Tickets on Tiqets (official partner site) > Fantastic booking site > Slightly pricier but easier to use with good cancellation policy.
• Viator Last Supper Tickets (official partner site) > Excellent third-party site with various options > Prices can be high.

Last Supper Tickets or Tour?

There’s no right or wrong way to enjoy a Last Supper visit, but there are perks to joining a tour of this Leonardo da Vinci masterpiece. If you book a ticket, it’s a short walkabout through the Last Supper Museum with an opportunity to view the work.

The ticket doesn’t include any real explanation or deeper insight into the work, as it’s an independent walkabout. On the other hand, a Last Supper tour is often guided by experienced tour operators who can tell you more about the artwork and the artist.

This option is pricier than just buying a ticket, but you honestly get your money’s worth. It’s a good idea to look through the recommended tour companies and book your ideal experience with one of them.

What Does Your Last Supper Ticket Include?

A ticket grants entrance into the refectory of Santa Maria Delle Grazie and the opportunity to view the Last Supper. There’s an allotted viewing time of 15 minutes per ticket. The ticket also includes access to the museum dedicated to the famous painting, its creator, and its restoration projects.

NOTE: A maximum of 35 people at a time are allowed in the small museum, which is part of the reason why tickets sell out fast, and viewings are limited to 15 minutes.

Buy Tickets on the “Official” Last Supper Site

You can get Last Supper tickets on the museum’s official site, Cenacolo Vinciano . A range of policies makes ticket prices affordable for just about everyone, but the standard ticket costs €15 per person.

Processing your ticket is mandatory at least 30 minutes before entry. For this reason, the ticket office opens 30 minutes before the museum starts allowing visitors.

• Pros of booking on Cenacolo Vinciano – You won’t find better prices anywhere else, there is no additional booking fee, and they update available tickets daily based on group tour block cancelations.
• Cons of booking on Cenacolo VInciano – The website is frustrating to use and tickets sell out almost immediately they are released. They don’t offer rescheduling or refunds. There’s no guaranteed admission to free ticket applications as it’s based on availability.

Last Supper Tickets Via an Official Partner

Although it’s cheaper to book through the official website, it’s often the case that you can only get Last Supper tickets through an official partner.

Companies such as GetYourGuide , Tiqets , and Viator are some of the best partner sites to book through. They offer a range of tickets and tours, including skip-the-line offers.

The tours often include visiting other sights within central Milan, such as the Piazza del Duomo and Galleria Vitorio Emanuele II. GetYourGuide is the best of the bunch due to the 24-hour cancellation policy and the lowest markup fee of the tour providers.

• Pros of booking with official partners – They offer the best variety of ticket and tour options, the sites are easy to use, and the cancellation policies are far more lenient than the official site.
• Cons of booking with official partners – They are slightly more expensive as you pay extra for the convenience.

Recommended Last Supper Tours

As mentioned, tickets sell out fast on Last Supper’s official website, so booking a tour is always a great option. 

With only 15 minutes to explore the Santa Maria Delle Grazie and the Last Supper, you can easily miss out on some intriguing details. This is especially true when you consider there’s no real explanation of the work in the museum.

This is why choosing the right ticket and tour provider is so important. The group size, tour length, and attractions should all be considered. Combining a Milan tour with the Last Supper also offers better value for your money.

When booking with an official partner, you can rest assured that all the tour guides have passed a thorough exam to obtain their license. So all the finer details revealed on tour are accurate and result in an unforgettable and enriching experience.

Here are some top tour recommendations:

• Last Supper tour with Take Walks – Explore the top places in Milan in just three hours, from the Last Supper painting to Duomo di Milano. You’ll start at Da Vinci’s Last Supper before winding through the city. The tour guide will show you through the Teatro alla Scala and the Galleria Vitorio Emanuele II.
• Semi-private tour with LivTours – For a more private affair, book this Milan Last Supper ticket and tour. With a maximum of six people per tour, expect nothing less than a fantastic experience. Other famous paintings are also on the agenda, from the wall painting in San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore to the unique optical illusions at San Satiro Church – Get 5% off with code – UNTOLDITALY .
• Milan historic tour on GetYourGuide – Admire the Last Supper during your 15-minute time slot before strolling past iconic sights like Castello Sforzesco and Piazza dei Mercanti. This historic walking tour is the perfect opportunity to see the famous painting and Milan all in one go.

Last Supper Tickets FAQ

Do you need to buy last supper tickets in advance.

In short, yes. Although Cenacolo Vinciano regularly updates the ticket status, buying tickets four months in advance is your best bet. Try to be as quick as possible if booking on the official website as tickets sell out quickly.

Otherwise, you can use GetYourGuide to book tickets for convenience and various tour options.

When Do Last Supper Tickets Go on Sale?

It may be old news now, but booking in advance is necessary. Reservation opportunities open every three months. For example, if you want to visit in November, December, or January , ticket sales for these months go live at the end of September.

The same thing applies all year round, but here’s the general breakdown of each ticket sale season:

• February, March, and April season > tickets are released from 19th – 27th of the month of December.
• May, June, and July season > tickets are released  19th – 27th of the month of March.
• August, September, and October season > tickets are released  19th – 27th of the month of June.
• November, December, and January season > tickets are released  19th – 27th of the month of September.

TOP TIP: These dates can change at the official ticketing website’s discretion, so keep up to date on the Cenacolo Vinciano booking page .

Can You Buy Last Supper Tickets on the Day?

Finding last-minute tickets is unlikely, but not impossible. Try using these partner sites if you need to find a last-minute ticket: 

• GetYourGuide

What Are the Last Supper Opening Hours?

Viewing times are the same throughout the year. You can visit from Tuesday to Sunday between 08:15 to 19:00, with the last admittance at 18:45. The museum is closed on Mondays, the 1st of January, and the 23rd of December.

What is the Best Time to Visit the Last Supper?

Unfortunately, there’s no being picky when visiting the Last Supper. So the best time to visit is when you can get a ticket. Although, if you do get to choose, try to avoid the morning rush.

Are There Any Discounts Or Free Entry to the Last Supper?

You can apply for free tickets on the official site, but these tickets are not guaranteed due to the high number of requests. Further discounts include €2 per person tickets if you fall between 18 and 25 years old.

The museum also offers free Sunday tickets for the first Sunday of each month. You can only get these tickets online the Wednesday before, so you must be super quick. 

Do I Need to Print My Last Supper Tickets?

Although you need to visit the ticket office before entering, printing a ticket is optional. Get the ticket sent to your phone and simply present it at the front desk before entering. 

READ: Our 3-day Milan itinerary for ideas of other things to see and do in Milan. 

Can I Stay Close to the Last Supper?

Yes, there are loads of fantastic accommodation options in Centro Storico, no more than a mile from Santa Maria Delle Grazie. Read about where to stay in Milan to discover the top recommendations.

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Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper in Milan: how to best visit it

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Everything you need to know to visit Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper , the masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance

The Cenacle , also known as the Last Supper , is the most famous representation of Christ's last supper. It is a wall fresco , dating back to between 1494 and 1498 , created by Leonardo da Vinci and   commissioned by Ludovico il Moro , regent of the Duchy of Milan. The fresco is in the refectory of the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie , in Milan .

To do this, Leonardo experimented with a particular mixed technique, incompatible with the surrounding environment and from the beginning the fresco began to deteriorate. The long restoration works have allowed a restoration that today allows the visit and access to 1300 visitors a day . In this article you will discover Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper in Milan and how to best visit it .

Considered one of the greatest geniuses of humanity , Leonardo da Vinci was the spirit of the Italian Renaissance . Versatile and multifaceted, he was a painter, sculptor, architect, inventor, scientist, engineer, draftsman and designer. The strength of his creativity reached into every area of knowledge and was tireless.

In this article we will tell you about the history of Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper in Milan , how it was created, why it is important , where it is located and how to best appreciate it, catching details that you would otherwise have overlooked. We will also give you practical information on how to get there and what type of ticket to book depending on your needs. Continue reading and discover Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper and how to best visit it.

The story of the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci

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The years in which Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper was created were years of great ferment and artistic splendor for the Italian courts and states. Lorenzo the Magnificent dominates in Florence , and it is he who puts Leonardo da Vinci in contact with Ludovico Sforza , known as il Moro, lord of the Duchy of Milan , who will commission him for the Last Supper . The Cenacle was created in the refectory of the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie , which Ludovico il Moro had chosen as the place of celebration of the Sforza family.

Painted over the course of two years, the theme is faithfully taken from the Gospel , in the moment in which Jesus r eveals to the twelve apostles that there is a traitor among them. The occasion of the Last Supper was the celebration of Pesach , the Jewish Easter . Leonardo da Vinci presents us not only with the action, the movement, the confusion among the apostles, some of whom try to reach the master, others chatter among themselves in disbelief; Leonardo with great mastery also gives us the emotional reaction that the news arouses in those present. The feelings of each apostle shine through clearly and authentically. We notice anguish, fear, doubt, uncertainty in the eyes and attitudes.

Where is Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper located?

The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci is found in the original position where it was painted, on the wall of the refectory of the ancient Dominican convent annexed to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, in Milan . The fresco characterized this environment so much that over time it took on the very name of cenacle . Despite the changes it underwent over the centuries, the refectory enjoyed particular attention, even in the most dramatic moments of the convent's history, due to the presence of Vinci's precious masterpiece .

The room is rectangular and has a total length of 35.50 meters, the mural painting of Leonardo's Last Supper is placed at the bottom. The ceiling is dominated by a large barrel vault . The refectory functions as a perspective box , where Leonardo manages to create the illusion that reality continues beyond the painted wall, and he does so thanks to a skillful use of light and perspective . If you are here to visit the Last Supper , a visit to the splendid church of Santa Maria delle Grazie , an important example of the Milanese Renaissance , is unmissable. 

Why Leonardo's Last Supper is important

That the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci is a central painting for the history of art of all time is confirmed by the fame that the wall painting achieved even immediately, as demonstrated by the numerous copies that were made of it. The novelty and importance of this painting lies both in the technique adopted by Leonardo in creating it, preceded by numerous perspectives, light, and even acoustic studies.

Another fundamental aspect lies in the emotional interpretation of the situation, in some ways it seems to be in a still image of a film, in which a dramatic action has just taken place. Over time there have been many curiosities and mysteries that historians, researchers, but also novelists and directors have wanted to see in painting. Like, for example, in the novel The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown , where it is stated that the figure to the right of Jesus is not the apostle John, but a female figure.

The church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan is in the square of the same name, about 1km away from the Sforzesco Castle . To get there we recommend taking public transport. The options are metro line 1 and get off at the Conciliazione or Cadorna stop , or line 2 and get off at the Cadorna stop , which is less than a kilometer from Leonardo's Last Supper; alternatively, you can use trams number 16, 20 or 24 stopping at Corso Magenta-Santa Maria delle Grazie and finally the last option is bus number 18. Also take advantage of the transport to take a tour of the 20 unmissable attractions of Milan .

Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper: visit guide

The wall painting of the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci in Milan is 9 meters wide and 4 meters high. As is known, Leonardo did not love the fresco technique, because it required a speed of execution (to spread the colors before the plaster dried) which was not in line with his modus operandi , made up of continuous modifications and various afterthoughts, he chose therefore a mixed dry technique on plaster, which allowed him to work slowly and have the possibility of modifying what he had already painted. Unfortunately, this technique immediately showed serious defects and already about twenty years after its creation, Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper appeared very damaged, due to the humidity of the wall behind it.

The aerial perspective used by Leonardo catalyzes attention on the wall painting of the Last Supper. The first impression is solemnity and calm agitation . The central figure of Jesus , with his mouth open, has probably just finished pronouncing the fateful words truly I say to you: one of you, the one who eats with me, will betray me . On either side of him the apostles are agitated, frightened and curious, they chatter among themselves, Jesus is among them, but at the same time it is as if he were abstracting himself from this very human buzz and commotion, which arose from his words. The scene captures the attention so much that many do not notice the five lunettes that enrich the work, within which the exploits of the Sforza are depicted, inside garlands of fruit, flowers, and leaves.

Booking methods and ticket types

To book your visit to Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper in Milan we recommend that you move well in advance . Daily admissions are limited, and it is a very visited work, so if you are planning a trip to Milan, to reserve tickets, book several months in advance. For example, if the tickets are sold out on the official website and you want a more immediate modality, we suggest two options: a ticket to avoid queues at the entrance, ticket with priority access with an expert guide , it will allow you to listen to the work, the artist and the site where it is located from the mouth of an expert. Alternatively, if you want to combine the visit to Leonardo's Last Supper with a guided walking tour of historic Milan, we suggest a ticket with priority access to the Last Supper + tour of historic Milan . Enjoy your visit.

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What You Need to Know Before Visiting Da Vinci’s Last Supper in Milan, Italy

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Leonardo Da Vinci’s portrait, “The Last Supper,” is arguably the most influential work of art ever made. It’s right up there with the Mona Lisa or Michelangelo’s David. Entire books, conspiracy theories and countless tacky souvenirs have been inspired by this masterpiece.

Those unfamiliar with the history of the painting might be surprised to know it’s not on canvas, but rather on the wall of a church located in Milan, Italy.

The church is open to the public and can be visited year-round, but admission is highly regulated so you need to plan accordingly.

No visit to Milan is complete without a trip to see this priceless work of art. Here’s everything you need to know to secure your spot!

RELATED POST: HOW TO SPEND 24 HOURS IN MILAN, ITALY

Santa Maria Delle Grazie Church

“The Last Supper” adorns the Santa Maria Delle Grazie church, located about a 15-minute walk from the Duomo. The miraculous thing about the painting is that it remains despite being bombed during World War II. All other walls on the church collapsed, except this one. The monks took precautions to protect the wall in case of an attack, but the feat of survival is an impressive, if not divine, one nonetheless.

Unlike many works by Da Vinci’s contemporaries, this is not a fresco. It’s tempera and oil on plaster, which allowed Da Vinci to take his time perfecting the image, whereas fresco pigment would have needed to be applied quickly before the plaster dried, precluding alterations.

The painting was originally overlooking the dining hall for monks of the church, thus the supper scene.

Don’t miss out on the views of Santa Maria Delle Grazie itself from the outside. The architecture is stunning and the church literally glows at night.

RELATED POST: HOW TO GET FROM MILAN TO CINQUE TERRE, ITALY

Getting Tickets to The Last Supper

With limited ticket availability and demand spanning out for months, getting in to see Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” is not easy. The moment you know you’re going to Milan, buy your ticket in advance. The website is  TickItaly  and will let you know all availability for your desired dates. Tickets go on sale at least 90 days out so check back often if you don’t see your dates at first.

If possible, get a ticket for admission just to the Last Supper , no tour or extras. This is by far your cheapest option, but the church only allows  20 people every 15 minutes and a lot of the tickets are booked ahead of time by tour groups.

If tickets are already sold out, try to  book a city tour since the price of the tour includes your ticket to see “The Last Supper.” You don’t want to miss this opportunity if you can swing the higher price of €70+.

Another option is to have a tour automatically scheduled for 10am the day after you arrive, through the Milan City Pass. The Milan City Pass is a good option for last minute visitors, or anyone visiting during peak season that doesn’t want to deal with the hassle of reserving tickets. While this is your costliest option at approximately €115 , it includes extras like skip-the-line tickets for the Duomo, a metro card and entrance to Sforza Castle and Theatre Scala.

Know Before You Go

Plan your transportation ahead of time. Taxis are not easy to catch when departing the church, but there is a cable car stop nearby. You can walk, but I wouldn’t recommend it in extreme weather. You can also buy train tickets in advance through ItaliaRail . 

The room in which “The Last Supper” stands is hermetically sealed. You have to go through two sets of doors to enter and everything closes promptly behind you. The 15 minute time period for observation and pictures is strict. You cannot take video of the painting. It’s against the rules and if you do it will come out like you’re videotaping a computer screen.

You can take photos of the painting, without flash .

The painting has been restored and renovated many times, so the colors you see today are likely different than the ones Da Vinci originally chose.

The visit can feel rushed, so try to sit and enjoy the moment as much as possible. There are pews provided for you to simply reflect and admire. There is another painting on the opposite wall but honestly time with the Last Supper flew by so quick I didn’t get a good look at it or hear much about its history.

Book early! Like yesterday! This is one of Europe’s most in-demand attractions, and for good reason.

RELATED POST: WHERE TO STAY IN MILAN, ITALY AS RECOMMENDED BY TOP TRAVEL BLOGGERS

Till next time, safe travels!

Liked this post? Pin me below.

Sunday 29th of January 2023

Has anyone taken the "official" guided tour? It is listed as given in English/Italian when you buy tickets direct and not through a for profit company. Does the official guide speak in both languages to the group?

Saturday 12th of November 2022

hi! may i know if the tickets are JUST to see the painting for 15 minutes?

Jen on a Jet Plane

Sunday 13th of November 2022

That was my experience, yes. There's a gift shop you get directed to after. If you book the day tour ticket they'll take you many places before you end up there.

Tuesday 21st of May 2019

Can I bring a tote bag in size approx 42x35cm? If not, is there a locker at the church?

Saturday 25th of May 2019

The regulations prohibit "large" bags. So long as yours is discreet and not taking up too much space you should be fine. There are no lockers at the church.

Saturday 20th of April 2019

Thanks for the post.

I have scheduled a tour to see The Last Supper, and other sights, for May, as a day trip from Bologna. Do you recall if there are any bag restrictions? I tend to carry a very small backpack that's been accepted everywhere I've been in Europe except St. Mark's Basilica in Venice. Because it's a day trip, I'd prefer to take it with me.

Thank you in advance for any recollection you might have.

Sunday 28th of April 2019

Hi Rebecca, I’ve found the following info below on quite a few sites, when booking just now. See the info under ‘Know Before You Go.’ :)

https://www.headout.com/tour/8873/italy/milan/skip-the-line-guided-tour-to-da-vinci-s-last-supper?utm_source=tourscanner&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=srcenIT2K

Sunday 21st of April 2019

I had a purse with me without issue and I don't recall the guide saying anything about bag restrictions or there being Lockers on site. I'd say you're OK bringing it with you. Enjoy your trip!

Friday 29th of March 2019

Thank you for the tips, really useful post!

Visit the Last Supper Museum in Milan: When, Where, How, What to Expect?

Published on August 16, 2024

by Henk Bekker

in Italy , Lombardy - Milan , NAdX

A practical guide and walkthrough of a visit to the Last Supper Museum in Milan – how, when, and where to pick up entrance tickets and what to expect on the day of the visit to Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterpiece painting in the Museo del Cenacolo Vinciano.

The Last Supper Museum in Milan is one of the top cultural and art sights to visit in Italy. Time-slot reservation tickets are obligatory but hard to get while guided tours sell at a premium — both tickets and tours often sell out so book as soon as travel dates are known. Once admission is booked, visitors have to exchange vouchers for museum entry tickets on the day of the time slot reservations. The basic process is simple but inflexible — be on time at the right ticket office. Once inside the museum, know the procedure as the set number of visitors have only 15 minutes with The Last Supper once the final automatic doors to the refectory of the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie are opened.

Last Supper Museum and Santa Maria delle Grazie Church

The Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie with “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci in the former refectory is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top cultural sights to see in the heart of Milan.

Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper is inside the former refectory (dining room) of the convent. This small building is referred to as the Last Supper Museum ( Museo Cenacolo Vinciano ) for which entry tickets with a time slot are absolutely essential.

Seeing the museum and Santa Maria delle Grazie church (with a small section of the convent) are done completely independently. All visitors enjoy free entry to the large church, although the opening hours are far shorter than that of the Last Supper Museum.

How to Pick Up Last Supper Museum Tickets in Milan

All visitors arrive at the small piazza in front of the Santa Maria delle Grazie church in Milan with a Last Supper Museum voucher rather than an actual ticket. No tickets booked yet? See Securing Tickets for the Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci  — it is not possible to buy tickets last minute from the ticket office Buy Last Supper tickets online cheapest weeks in advance from the official website or book a  Last Supper tour  (months to days in advance).

To swap the Last Supper Museum (Cenacolo Vinciano) voucher for actual Last Supper tickets, the best way is to proceed as follows:

• For ticket-only visitors : the ticket booking time slot is the time to enter the museum. Half an hour earlier, proceed to the ticket office — the small yellowish building to the far left on Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie when facing the museum (church on the right). There is no point in being too early.
• For tours , the voucher should state the time to arrive — usually 15 minutes before the tour time, which is usually not the time of entry into the museum. First thing, find the tour representative, who will check vouchers to see if you are in the right Last Supper tour group (and time) — don’t be shy to ask, most are happy to point you in the direction of the right person if needed. (It is impossible to “steal” a visitor from another tour guide.) A further check is likely, often by the actual expert guide, to ensure that IDs and names on the list match. Audio guides are handed out and earphones tested — if the sound is iffy, complain right away. (A small group tour of six saves a bit of time here.) Follow the guide to the ticket office. (If you missed your tour group, run to the ticket office and hope your ticket is still available.)

At the ticket office, all tickets for the time slot are already printed out. Show an official ID document or passport and the ticket with the matching name will be handed over. Don’t lose it. Minor spelling errors are not a problem but avoid nicknames etc. when booking. If there is no ticket with a matching name, you will not see The Last Supper — the museum personnel has no discretion to sell or give away any unclaimed tickets or to print any additional tickets last minute.

Lockers are available at the ticket office to leave all small bags but do take phones and cameras with you to the museum. No food or drink (including water) may be taken into the museum. There are no storage facilities for large bags or luggage — book nearby luggage storage in advance. In a pinch, politely begging the personnel to leave suitcases unattended inside the office at your own risk may work (but they are not really supposed to let you do it).

The dress code is usually not as strictly enforced as at some churches but as a minimum, all visitors should have shoulders and knees covered.

Visit the Last Supper Museum in Milan

Last Super tickets in hand, return outside to the piazza and line up at the museum entrance — the yellowish building perpendicular to the church. The time group will proceed through the ticket check into the museum and go through a series of rooms with automatic doors for climate control purposes. Some photos and information are on display and tour guides may use these to point out details to look out for later. Tickets-only visitors holders may find themselves the solo non- Get Your Guide tour member in the group but feel free to eavesdrop.

A good tip is to proceed through every room directly to the automatic doors to enter the next first. The final doors from the cloisters open to the refectory and from now visitors have 15 minutes to enjoy Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper .

Seeing the Cenacolo Vinciano in the Refectory Dining Room

Leonardo da Vinci painted his famous The Last Supper ( Il Cenacolo or  L’Ultima Cena ) on the north wall of the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie monastery between 1494 and 1498. Rather than using the tried and tested fresco technique of painting quickly on wet plaster, he used the dry painting technique, which allowed him to proceed slower and layer colors. The result was a spectacular work of art that is fragile and needed many restorations as well as the current complicated airconditioning system (and limited visitor numbers and difficult ticket availability).

The refectory is large enough for the whole group to easily enjoy The Last Supper painting. Visitors have to stay far enough away from the wall, and the painting is about a door length up from the floor (as is obvious from the doorway that cut off Christ’s feet), so there is no real need to rush to the front for a clear view.

Visitors may take photos and videos but not use a flash photography, tripod, or selfie stick.

Also, look at the painting from the center or back of the room to appreciate Leonardo da Vinci’s use of perspective to match the architecture and vaulting of the room. More of the walls and ceilings were painted before damage in the Second World War.

Giovanni Donato Montorfano’s Crucifixion

After 15 minutes, visitors will be ushered out of the room. On the way to the exit, have a look at the large wall paintings on the opposite wall: Crucifixion fresco (1495) by Giovanni Donato Montorfano — his only signed painting. The nearly faded figures in the lower corners are often attributed to Da Vinci. Using real fresco techniques, this painting was better preserved than Leonardo’s despite being painted in the same period in the late 15th century.

(A very good copy of the central band of The Last Supper was painted already in 1616 by Andrea Bianchi (“Vespino”) to have a record in case the original was damaged and is displayed in the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana , which also has the only Da Vinci panel painting in Milan and the Codex Atlanticus of his notes and drawings.)

A small exhibition explains the damage of the Second World War when a bomb in August 1943 destroyed the sidewall and much of the vaulting of the refectory. The Last Supper was protected by a wall of sandbags. The exhibition also explains some details of the most recent full restoration projects — completed in 1999 after two decades of work.

Toilets are available behind the small bookshop — a great option, clean and no queues. Otherwise, exit through the garden and pick up belongings from the ticket office lockers.

Other Da Vinci Sights to Visit near the Last Supper Museum

Although Leonardo da Vinci spent considerable time working for Ludovico Sforza, Duke of Milan, apart from The Last Supper , the only Da Vinci painting in Milan is Portrait of a Musician in the Pinacoteca Abrosiana . This lovely museum has many further wonderful artworks but also the Codex Atlanticus of which only a limited number of Da Vinci drawings are displayed at any time.

Very close to the Last Supper Museum is the privately owned Da Vinci’s Vineyard. In 2015, the vineyard was again planted with the kind of vines that Leonardo had growing here after he received it as a gift from the Sforzas. (It was sold to French billionaire Bernard Arnault and had been closed to the public since late 2023 with no indication if it will reopen in the future.)

Models of some of Da Vinci’s numerous designs and inventions are on display in the Science Museum with Da Vinci Models exhibition , which is a few blocks from the Last Supper Museum (10-minute walk). In addition to the around 170 Da Vinci models, this is also the largest science and technology museum in Italy and well worth seeing for the other displays too.

The interactive Leonardo3 – The World of Leonardo exhibition in Milan is also very popular with tourists. It is a display of 200 large and interactive models of Da Vinci’s designs. It is conveniently located at the entrance to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II across the piazza from La Scala near the Duomo.

See also Tips on Visiting Leonardo’s Last Supper Museum for transportation information.

More Tips on Milan Sights and Tickets

• Top Leonardo da Vinci Sights and Art to See in Milan
• Buy Tickets for the Last Supper ,
• What to Expect when Visiting the Last Supper Museum ,
• How to Buy Tickets or Book Tours for the Last Supper Museum — buy early or only guided tours are available.
• Visit Chiesa di Santa Maria Delle Grazie — admission to the church next to The Last Supper Museum is free.
• Visit the Free San Maurizio Church — endless Renaissance frescoes in the “Sistine Chapel of Milan”
• Visit the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana to See Leonardo Da Vinci’s Musician Painting and the Codex Atlanticus .
• Visit the National Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo da Vinci
• Tips on Buying Tickets for the Milan Cathedral Complex .
• Visit the Rooftop of Duomo di Milano on Stairs or Lift Pass Tickets .
• Cheapest Public Transportation to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) .
• Book luggage storage in advance — close to transportation hubs is generally the better option.
• Book Last Supper Tours at Viator .
• Book Guided Tours for the Duomo, Last Supper, and other sights in Milano from Get Your Guide .
• Buy Admission Tickets for the Duomo and top sights in Milan from Tiqets.
• Buy Milan Guidebooks at Amazon .

Home » Italy » Visit the Last Supper Museum in Milan: When, Where, How, What to Expect?

“ What are you looking for? ”

Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper in Milan: How to Get Tickets & Where to Eat

On the 500th anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci’s death, you can arrange a visit to the see the iconic Last Supper (not so easy) and get an idea of where to eat (very easy) in that part of Milan.

Planning a visit to see The Last Supper (the Cenacolo Vinciano) on the 500th anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci’s death is must for any visitor to Milan interested in Renaissance art. The eclectic artist and inventor left his mark in Venice, Florence and elsewhere, but Milan was his home and workshop for many years, the place where his boundless intelligence and creativity was allowed to flourish unlike anywhere else. To pay our respects to the man who has become synonymous with genius, let’s explore the options for getting tickets to the artwork and consider some choice spots for a lunch or dinner break while you’re there.

First, a little backstory

Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper was completed in 1498, four years after the Duke of Milan, Ludovico Maria Sforza (also known as “Il Moro”), commissioned it. Sforza designated the Santa Maria delle Grazie church in Milan as the primary location for celebrations honoring his powerful family. Leonardo da Vinci was hired to decorate the walls of the refectory and, driven by his relentless creative urges, launched himself madly into producing a work that was unique in its genre, which was later reproduced countless times in Italy and elsewhere. Even though the copies never matched the virtuosity of the original, they were essential for centuries as a way for the world to see the colors and forms intended by da Vinci.

With his peculiar panel painting technique (oil tempera made with eggs and oil thinners on top of a base of rough plaster, a mixture of calcium carbonate and magnesium compounded with a protein binder), Leonardo da Vinci obtained luminous effects and a great richness of detail. Unfortunately, to allow himself more time to work the details of his painting, he tried this rather new technique on dry plaster (frescoes were usually painted on still wet plaster, so you had to rush). As a result, the magnificent painting encounter problems from the outset, both due to the dampness of the walls and the frequent temperature spikes caused by the adjoining kitchens. The splendor of his work began to fade almost immediately, and well-intentioned fixes by various artists over the centuries undermined its great value.

The great restoration

As it would be unthinkable to lose such an artistic treasure, repairs eventually had to be made. The longest, most challenging art restoration project in history brought together scientists, art critics and restoration experts from around the world in a massive endeavor that lasted from 1977 to 1999. It took more than 20 years to recover the original beauty of the work that had suffered so much tampering, but the work revealed priceless details like the Apostles’ feet under the table, John’s face, and the hole from a nail the artist set in Christ’s head to plot the perspective of the scene.

Then entrepreneur Oscar Farinetti, the founder of Eataly, won the 2018-2019 CULTURE + BUSINESS prize in Milan for a project dubbed “Such a supper must not be lost!” and was endorsed by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities. An upgraded climate control and air purification system now pumps around 350,000 cubic feet of clean air into the Santa Maria delle Grazie refectory every day, compared to about 125,000 previously. This effort will allow Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper to endure for another 500 years and be seen by a growing number of visitors (up 30% in the first three years since the restoration) without damage from the fine dust that everyone brings in.

Where to get tickets to Leonardo's Last Supper

The Last Supper, which UNESCO declared a World Heritage site in 1980, has always been one of the top art destinations in Italy. In 2017, 416,337 visitors came to see it, making it the 16th most visited museum site in the country. At least once in a lifetime, everyone should enter the otherwise-barren refectory in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church to be dumbstruck by the brilliant painting, which is also imposingly large: about 29 feet wide by 15 feet tall.

You have to make reservations in advance to see The Last Supper. Protecting Leonardo’s masterpiece requires ideal environmental conditions secured by indoor air treatment and special procedures to grant access to visitors, admitted in 25-person groups for no longer than 15 minutes. Keep in mind that the viewing hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 8:15 a.m. to 7 p.m. (the last entrance of the day is at 4:45 p.m.). The fixed cost of a reservation is 2 euros.

If you opt for an online visit, we recommend the official website of the Cenacolo Vinciano Museum on the Lombardy Regional Museum’s platform, through which you can buy admission tickets from the official reseller, VivaTicket. Relatively few tickets are available compared to the demand, so don’t expect to stop in soon after your request. There is now a long-awaited timetable for scheduled purchases. For instance, tickets for October and November went on sale in late July. If you find this daunting, you can also contact a human being by telephone. From Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., you can reserve or buy admission tickets to the Cenacolo Vinciano by calling the toll-free number +39 800-990-084 or the toll number +39 02 92800360.

An alternative that will cost more is using reliable third parties like agencies or other partners that have been recognized either nationally or by the regional government. For example, the Touring Club suggests its partner site Musement, which will charge about €45 to free you from waiting in line and book a guided tour for you (the original price is €12 euros). Another example is Eataly, which goes beyond restoration support and offers a way to enjoy an in-depth experience. It includes dinner at Eataly, then access to the refectory for 30 minutes instead of the usual 15 during evening hours or days the museum is closed, complete with an expert describing the origin, history and secrets of the work.

Where to eat near The Last Supper

Leonardo da Vinci’s great work hangs on the refectory wall in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church in Milan’s Magenta Area, very close to the Cadorna railway station and the Conciliazione metro stop. Nearby there are plenty of opportunities for a delicious meal.

Boccondivino

Boccondivino offers a solid wine cellar experience with its full wine list and a genuine menu that has earned appreciation from visitors for some time. Even the check is about right.

La Bottarga

La Bottarga is a great seafood restaurant near San Vittore with several Calabrian dishes on the menu. High-quality ingredients and careful preparation make La Bottarga a favorite dining spot for Milan residents and visitors alike.

Osteria La Carbonaia

Osteria La Carbonaia is the perfect place if you have a craving for Fiorentina steak but can’t run off to Tuscany. This classic restaurant, with textured walls and rustic wood furniture, will transport you to another world full of wine and grilled food.

Pasta Fresca da Giovanni

Pasta Fresca da Giovanni is a trustworthy choice for anyone looking for top-quality pasta dishes. The only drawback is the size of the place, as it is quite small and does not have many tables, so it’s not suitable for large groups. With a little patience, you’ll be seated, and you’ll be glad you wa...

Temakinho Magenta

Temakinho Magenta will whisk you off to Brazil by way of Japan: here the two food cultures come together with delicious and surprising results. Definitely worth trying.

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Milan’s Last Supper: Tickets, Time Limits and Other Tips

June 14, 2023

Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. Photo from Wikicommons

No trip to Milan is complete without visiting Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper, one of the world’s most renowned and mysterious works of art. Admiring this masterpiece is a unique experience…but it’s not something you can do last-minute!

The easiest and more informative way to see it is with  our small-group Milan tours led by an expert guide . But if you want to go it alone, we’re all for that, so here are 4 things you should know before planning your trip to the Last Supper in Milan!

Table of Contents

The Last Supper isn’t in a museum, but a church…

Contrary to popular belief, the Last Supper is not located in a museum: It’s in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church and convent. The work (located in the dining room!) was commissioned by Ludovico Sforza, Duke of Milan, and was believed to be completed between 1495 – 1498.

…but it’s very easy to reach.

Luckily, getting to Santa Maria delle Grazie is easy! Take the red MM1 subway line to the Conciliazione stop or the green MM2 to Cadorna,where you will see directions for the “Cenacolo Vinciano.” From there, follow the populated Corso Magenta street to the Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

The Last Supper can also be reached from the Stazione Centrale (Central Station) with five stops on the green line, or by a 20-minute walk from the Duomo. (Don’t miss our  guide to public transport in Milan  to get the hang of how it all works!).

Santa Maria delle Grazie, the home of the famed Last Supper

The Last Supper is a painting, not a fresco…

Da Vinci painted the large 15ft-by-29ft piece directly on drywall. That means it’s technically not a fresco (which would be painted on wet plaster).  

…which means it’s deteriorating, quickly!

Da Vinci took the unique step of laying pitch, gesso and mastic on the wall, then painting with tempera over it… a method called fresco-secco  that meant the painting started decaying within years of being finished.

You have to buy Last Supper tickets in advance…

Nope, you can’t just stroll in to see the Last Supper: Instead, tickets must be reserved. Ticket dates are released approximately four months in advance and can be purchased online  or by phone at +39 0292 800360. The cost is 6.50 euro, plus a 1.50 euro service charge.

Typically, appointments can be scheduled Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15am to 6:45pm. We highly suggest booking as early as possible to guarantee admittance to one of history’s most important works of art! And if you’re booking last minute or can’t find tickets for your desired date, there may be a chance at organizing a visit! We suggest periodically checking the website or calling the hotline to snag tickets from a canceled group or individual reservations. Tickets are sometimes for sale the same morning by waiting in line before the first appointment at 8:15AM, but are rarely available.

Donato Montorfano’s Crucifixion, displayed across from the Last Supper.

…and you’ll have only 15 minutes to admire Da Vinci’s work.

The downside: No matter how far in advance you book, you’ll still have only 15 minutes in front of the painting. That’s not much when it comes to observing one of the Renaissance’s most famous works (not to mention one that has launched countless conspiracy theories, movies, and novels!).

To make the most of your time, consider booking our Best of Milan tour , which lets you experience the painting with an art history expert to bring it to life. And whether you go with a guide or not, make sure to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your scheduled time (any late visitors will not be allowed entrance!).

Also, remember that large bags are not permitted in the museum area of the church and appropriate clothing (shoulders and knees covered) should be worn during the visit. Photographs are strictly forbidden to preserve the delicate painting.

by Elena Ciprietti

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How to see Leonardo Da Vinic’s Last Supper painting in Milan, Italy

Everything you need to know about visiting the famous last supper painting by leonardo da vinci; what to expect, and how to get tickets..

The Last Supper, known as Il Cenacolo in Italian, is one of the most recognizable paintings ever created. Leonardo da Vinci is the mastermind behind the iconic work, and there really is no way around visiting this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site when you are in Milan (just in case: here is a list of the other must-see places in Milan ).

I’m sure you want to see it as well, but sadly you are not alone! The crowd in front of the museum is usually a mixture of art lovers (like me), devout Christians or those who just saw the movie “The Da Vinci Code”, which explains why tickets sell out so fast. Incredibly fast! It is one of the most iconic works of art of all time.

In this little guide, I will show you how to visit, what to expect and how to get tickets for the Last Supper.

Let’s go!

What to expect from visiting Da Vinci’s Last Supper

Santa Maria delle Grazie , an ancient convent and in itself a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the home of the Last Supper painting. A small entrance on the side, quite the small inconspicuous affair, will lead you inside the Museum Cenacolo Vinciano – the proper name of the place you want to visit.

You are required to show up at the entrance of the Museum  15 minutes prior to the start of your tour . It is not possible to see the Last Supper without a tour, neither are you allowed to walk freely around the refectory. No ticket means not getting in and only a maximum of 25 people may see the Last Supper at any given time (as they want to keep the humidity at a very constant level).

All tourists within a tour will line up in front of the security gate of the refectory and wait for the tour guide. Once through, you will walk down a rather nondescript aisle (a testament to the huge destruction during World War II) until you reach an airlock .

Once the whole group is within the airlock, the doors will close and a couple of announcements follow to inform you about your upcoming visit. The basics: Keep quiet and you are only allowed 15 minutes within .

Once past the airlock, you will enter an extremely austere hall  with almost no decoration at all, a huge, huge ceiling and two murals on either end. One of them is Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper and the other the Crucifixion by Giovanni Donato da Montorfano (which most tourists more or less ignore).

The refectory , or rather what remains of it, is certainly not what you might expect . There is nothing artistic about, only low lights and a couple of benches in between – more like a backwater railway station and not one of the most important museums in Italy.

A barrier keeps you from getting to close to the murals on either side. The whole ensemble almost looks laughable trivial. To think that what you see has been the effort of 20 years of restoration!

But then your eyes will focus on the Last Supper. You will step closer, and as your eyes adjust to the darkness you will be captivated by its glory . Take a step closer yet, right to the barrier, so your whole vision is encompassed by the gigantic mural (180 in x 350 in, no less!).

Slowly you will begin to see the many small details on the broad expanse in front of you. You will start guessing the various Disciples (or maybe you already know them!) and look for the many little cues Leonardo da Vinci left for the viewers on his masterpiece.

I actually recommend you to totally ignore your tour guide. The very best thing you can do is prepare your visit the best way you can. Don’t spend those 15 minutes you got within on listening which Disciple sits where and what’s the meaning of that spilled salt in front of Judas (which you will probably not see anyway). You can easily read it all at home or in the brochure they hand out.

What you can’t do at home is looking at the original. So, rather use those precious moments and only focus on the picture itself. Let yourself be amazed by the genius who conceived it. Those 15 minutes will fly past like a summer breeze and you will regret not having studied the mural in its entirety up close.

Because just like that, your visit will be over. By the time the announcement is made you have to leave the refectory, you will probably have not seen half of the details you wanted to, and you’ll notice the other mural in passing. You’ll leave through a different door, through a little souvenir shop and the ticket office. But by then you will still be dreaming of the magnificent Last Supper.

The Location of the Last Supper in Milan

Now you are probably wondering how to get to the Last Supper in Milan.

Again, the church called Santa Maria delle Grazie is where you want to go.  It is an easy walk (10 min max) from the Milano Cadorna railway station right next to Castello Sforzesco. There really is no need to take a taxi as you will be touring all those other highlights anyway and you can just plan the rest of your itinerary around whatever Last Supper tour slot you were able to book.

Follow Via Giovanni Boccaccio from Milano Cadorna until you get to a roundabout, change into Via Caradosso, and follow it another 100 meters until you reach the Corso Magenta, where you should already see the marvelous round tower of the Church. This is the correct address (or simply use Google Maps):

Cenacolo Vinciano piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2 20100 MILANO (MI)

Please note, however, that the Last Supper Museum has an extra entry on the left side of the church (facing the front). You should absolutely go inside the Church itself (no ticket needed, plan around 30 minutes), but you won’t be able to see the Last Supper there.

Again, be aware that you should be at the museum 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour! You are not allowed to bring any luggage, bags or drinks into the refectory, though there are small lockers at the ticket office next door.

Last Supper Tickets

During the tourist season, there is literally no chance of seeing the last supper without pre-booking your tickets. You can only do so through the official website of the Last Supper Museum: Here is the website for your convenience

Especially during the warmer months, tickets will be sold out days and even weeks in advance, so it is of the utmost importance to book them before your arrival . You can only purchase a maximum of 5 tickets. You could also get tickets via GetYourGuide (affiliate link) if you want a professional tour guide.

Last supper ticket prices

• 10.00 Euros per person (+ 2 Euros fee if you book online)
• Children, students, teachers, and disabled people may enter for free (but still require a ticket)

What to do when all Last supper tickets are sold out?

Here’s the thing: During my last stay in Milan, I only thought of booking the tickets 2 weeks in advance. At that time NO tickets were available anymore. So, what did I do? On my very first day, I asked the concierge of the Four Seasons Hotel (where I was staying) what I could do and told him that I really wanted to see the Last Supper. Read my review of the Four Seasons Hotel Milano here .

He did a couple of calls and offered me tickets for about 60€ (each!) through a ticket agency. Call me crazy, but I did accept and got tickets for an English guided tour on the next day. A representative of the ticket agency waited for me in front of the church 20 minutes prior to the tour and she handed over the tickets quite seamlessly. Expensive, but it worked.

There is one problem: Ever since November 2018, you have to register your name when you buy tickets online and you need to show a valid ID at the start of your visit . I’m actually not sure if these ticket agencies still are in operation, but I’d ask your concierge anyhow as the tickets I got were official tickets (no computer printouts or anything), so I’m not sure which channels they work through.

Opening hours of the Last Supper

• Tuesday – Sunday: 8:15 am – 6:45 pm
• Closed on Mondays

Is it worth seeing the Last Supper when you are in Milan?

This is a tough question. You see, the adjacent church and the Last Supper are a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. The mural quite literally changed the way we see things . Now, when we think of the famous moment when Jesus announces to his Twelve Disciples that one of them is going to betray them, most of us think of this very mural.

While there have been tons of previous oil paintings depicting the Last Supper, none choose this special moment in the Gospel of John (13:21) and worked around the intense psychological motions of the various Disciples. It’s like somebody pressed the stop button – such a novel idea in the late 15th century! You can even see how James the Greater raises his hands in surprise.

Painting it on dry plaster on the wall of the refectory, was probably not the wisest idea, though. Traditional frescoes are painted on wet plaster (like in the Sistine Chapel), but DaVinci was an extremely slower painter, which is why he choose the secco technique. But the mural deteriorated quickly and was already in a bad shape merely 100 years later, which made numerous restorations necessary.

The fact, that all people on the fresco secco mural are facing the viewer is quite unique as well. Normally people just don’t sit around a table like this, and yet the whole composition appears to be just so natural to us. Few people know that most earlier renditions of the Last Supper placed Judas on the opposing side of the table and not together with such important players like John and Peter. (There is a famous rendition by Rosell in the Sistine chapel).

So, in essence, I am saying you are not only visiting a beautiful painting, but also a huge milestone in art history.

That being said, after intense restoration works and the damage of more than five centuries, so very few of Leonardo Da Vinci’s original brushstrokes remain . Despite the best restaurateurs working on the masterpiece for 2 decades (the restoration was completed in 1999), what remains is only a ghost of its former glory. You might think my pictures are grainy, but in fact, it’s the mural itself (were no original paint remained, the replaced it by small dots in pastel tones).

All colors are very muted, discerning the details is quite hard and of course, large portions of the mural are damaged beyond repair. If you want to see how the original must have looked like, then visit the copy by Giampietrino as, in the collection of the Royal Academy of Arts, London. The room is extremely dark, a barrier keeps you from coming to close, and you barely got 15 minutes in front of a mural the size of two parking lots!

Yet, I believe it is well worth your time and money to see it once in person. Not only because what remains is still glorious, but mainly because the mural marks such an important development in human history. Also, the whole atmosphere, the sheer spirituality of that mural, make it an extra special visit.

Also, you really should remember that the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan is a beautiful gothic church, really worth visiting as well. Don’t skip it, there are wonderful traditional frescoes to be seen.

So, this was my little guide on how to see the Last Supper in Milan and what to expect from a visit. Hope I was able to help you with planning your trip to this beautiful Italian city. Any questions left? Let me know in the comments below!

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I watched the “Last Supper” long ago, before its restoration. The location of the Last Supper was bombarded during the second World War. The area was destroyed, BUT THE PAINTINGS were saved. The beauty, then, was that you see the paintings, not only the “last supper”, but also a couple of paintings in the middle of a bombed area and the paintings quite untouched. NO BOUBT IT WAS A MIRACLE and I am surprised that the article did not address it. I remember about the restrictions major restriction was NO PICTURES WITH FLASH. I took a picture without a flash that I may still have it. During the time of my visit, there was no “Admission Fee”. Doors were open for anyone to visit. Although I traveled to Milan at least 15 times, Of course I would want to revisit after restoration of the location which was bombed and the paintings were SAVED with the “WILL” of God. The fact that It was a miracle SHOULD have been mentioned in the article.

Thank you for the helpful hints before seeing the Last Supper. We are going next month and are really looking forward to it. I know you said that no bags are allowed. Does this include a small purse? I can see straps across a couple of people, but those may be cameras. Just trying to figure out how to carry my wallet, camera, etc. Thank you for your help~ Pam Turner

Hey Pamela,

well fanny packs and the like are probably okay..and of course you can bring your purse and cameras. But bigger bags or backpacks definitely aren’T!

Thank you for all of the info. I am wondering if we will have access to the gift shop BEFORE our scheduled visit? Grazie

Hey Virginia,

yeah…there is a proper gift shop at the back of the church and I believe they sell a little something right next to the ticket office where the lockers are. You can definitely visit before your actual visit.

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How to Visit Da Vinci’s Last Supper in Milan

SD › Italy › Milan › Visiting the Last Supper Updated: April 28, 2022 By Santorini Dave

Of all Milan’s many treasures, Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterwork is the most famous. The artistry is certainly impressive, and as a historical artifact it stands as yet another reminder of Da Vinci’s overwhelming genius, but what’s truly amazing is that it exists at all. The combination of oil and egg tempera the artist used to create it was not meant to last for over 500 years, and it has withstood ill-conceived restorations, careless structural alterations (including a doorway that chopped off part of the painting), and bombing raids that wiped out many of the surrounding buildings. But exist it does, and any visitor to Milan who will be in town for a day or longer should take advantage of the chance to see something so precious. Unfortunately, you will not be alone. The Last Supper is among the world’s most famous pieces of art, and it is housed in the small monastery of Santa Maria delle Grazie , so it’s essential to plan in advance.

Seeing The Last Supper: Essential Info Advance reservations are required. Viewings are limited to 30 people at a time, in 15 minute intervals. Tickets are available online Tuesday through Sunday from around 8am to 7pm, with extended hours on Sundays during the high season (late spring and summer). Book tickets as soon as possible. For the high season, book at least 8-10 weeks in advance of your arrival. Guided tours can be purchased in advance as well, and offer more information on the history and artistry of the painting. The museum is closed on Mondays as well as Christmas, New Year’s Day, and May 1st (Labor Day). Non-flash photography, day packs, strollers and water bottles are permitted. Large bags, food, and open beverages are not permitted. Children under 18 get free admission.

Reservations and Buying Tickets

Santa Maria delle Grazie church and monastery

It is highly unlikely to be able to see the Last Supper without a reservation. Only 30 visitors are brought in at a time, in 15 minute intervals, to try and minimize wear and tear on the painting. However, tickets are available for purchase in advance online for time windows Tuesday through Sunday from around 8am to 7pm, with extended hours on Sundays during the high season (late spring and summer). Visitors during the high season will want to book tickets at least 8-10 weeks in advance of your arrival. Otherwise, a 4 to 6-week time frame is generally fine. Basic rule of thumb: as soon as you know you will be in Milan and when, buy your Last Supper ticket.

Multiple websites, including the official VivaTicket site, offer advance tickets for entry during the 15-minute time windows. When buying tickets (you can buy up to 5 at a time), you might be asked to reserve for “Cenacolo Vinciano” which means “Da Vinci’s Last Supper” in Italian. You also might encounter some confusing information; for instance, there is often a statement on the VivaTicket site for a “pre-sale opening,” which just indicates how far in advance tickets are available for a certain date. The “pre-sale” for buying tickets in May and June currently starts on the 13th of February. Generally though, you can ignore that part and just reference the calendar, which indicates the days still available for bookings. You can also gain entrance to the Last Supper via the Milano City Pass (although you will still need to book far in advance), which may be worth the extra cost if you are planning on an extensive museum run in Milan. If you are pinching pennies, note that entrance to the museum is free the first Sunday of every month; however, a reservation is still required (and because it’s free, even harder to come by). Children under 18 get in free for any showing, although again, reservations are compulsory.

If your date is no longer available on the calendar, do not despair – you may still find availability through a guided tour. It will cost more money, but in many ways is a better way to experience the painting; the short viewing window and lack of signage make it difficult to adequately appreciate the painting’s history and artistic merits otherwise. Many tours will also include other popular tourist attractions in Milan as well, like the Duomo, the Galleria, and Sforza Castle.

Best Guided Tours of Da Vinci’s Last Supper

• Live Guided Tour – 1 hour
• Walking Tour with Last Supper Tickets – 3 hours (Includes Duomo)
• Best of Milan Guided Tour – 2.5 hours (Includes Duomo & Sforza Castle)
• Late Night Opening – 1 hour (only 2 Wednesdays per month)

The Experience

The entrance to the Last Supper is to the left of the church itself, in a smalller cream-colored building.

Groups of guests are asked to arrive 20 minutes early; the viewings are tightly managed, so there’s never a long wait after your allotted time. Groups are then shuttled through a series of checks and waiting areas. First outside, where guests can get a good look at Santa Maria delle Grazie itself – a rather ordinary piece of architecture, not at all the kind of grand cathedral you might assume. Next, groups are herded into a waiting area where tickets are verified, with placards on the walls that describe the history of the building, but surprisingly little information on the painting itself (a good reason to consider going on a guided tour). After that, there’s a climate-controlled buffer space where guests wait for another few minutes until finally being allowed entry into the refectory in which the painting resides.

If the building is humble on the outside, the arched, rectangular room which houses the painting is even more unremarkable. The Last Supper is displayed on one of the shorter walls; the other is taken up with the pleasant, but badly outclassed, Crucifixion by Giovanni Donato da Montorfino. The painting sits rather high up on the wall, and guests often spend most of their 15 minutes trying to take it in from different angles. The museum guides inside will alert visitors at 5-minute intervals, and will begin shuttling the group out with only a few minutes to spare. Linger as long as possible, but respect the time of the next group.

Planning Your Trip

There is much information provided about the monastery, but little about the painting itself. A guided tour is recommended.

Best Time to Go

The museum is closed on Mondays as well as Christmas, New Year’s Day, and May 1st (Labor Day). Milan is quite busy with tourists during the summer, and with many attractions closed in August (when most locals and a number of business owners flee the city), getting tickets will be more difficult. The easiest time to get tickets is generally during fall or winter, but check the calendar for the city’s two winter Fashion Weeks (one in January and another in February), as Last Supper tickets – and hotel rooms – are harder to secure during these times.

Restrictions

Until the last few years, pictures in the room housing the Last Supper were strictly forbidden, but ever since 2010, when Silvio Berlusconi took one of himself and Dimitri Medvedev standing in front of the painting, restrictions have relaxed.

• Non-Flash photography is allowed. Flash photography is not.
• Large bags are not permitted, although day packs are OK, as are strollers and water bottles.
• Food and open beverages are not allowed.
• Guests are often asked to leave wet coats and umbrellas in the waiting area to collect later.
• Because the museum is part of a working convent, an informal dress code is also in effect. The staff probably will not actually prevent you from entering, but you will risk being on the receiving end of a disapproving stare if you show up in shorts and a tank top.

How to Get There

Santa Marie delle Grazie is walkable from the Duomo/Centro Storico area, although it is not a direct route and might be too far with young children. If you choose to take public transit, the number 16 tram (view an online tram map for more details) will drop you right in front. You can also take the M1 Metro from the Duomo stop to Cadorna, which gets you within a few blocks of the museum; the M2 line also will drop you at Cadorna if that’s more convenient (consult an online metro map or download the ATM Milano app for more detail).

Best Hotels near the Last Supper

• Hotel Palazzo delle Stelline
• Dreams Hotel Residenza Corso Magenta

About Santorini Dave

Plan your Visit to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper

The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci is arguably the second most famous painting in the world after the other da Vinci masterpiece, the Mona Lisa . The superstar 15th-century mural is probably the most duplicated painting on the planet. It shows up on posters, placemats, calendars, mouse pads and any other flat surface humanity can print a picture on. It’s everywhere, and it has become one of Milan’s most famous attractions. For that reason, The Last Supper tickets are in high demand. Unfortunately, many visitors never get to see this artwork.

Access to The Last Supper is strictly limited to protect the fragile painting. Entry is only allowed every 15 minutes with a maximum of 30 people at any given time. This means visitors must pre-book online well in advance to secure a spot to see it.

Order Your Last Supper Tickets Far in Advance

Perhaps the best piece of advice we can give visitors is to start investigating the booking process as soon as you realize you want to visit Milan. Our trip to the city was a rather last-minute decision, so we only started looking for The Last Supper tickets the week before we arrived. Since we were visiting WAY off season, we assumed we would have no problems getting a spot. We were wrong.

When we visited Vivaticket’s official booking site (see navigation tips just below), we discovered the first available Last Supper tickets were 12 days later, the very last day of our visit to Milan. Yikes, that was close! During peak travel times, spots to see The Last Supper can be booked out months in advance. If you can’t get Last Supper tickets through Vivaticket, the official site, consider taking a tour through a company which has pre-booked tickets for its tours. Check out Viator’s Last Supper tours , which come in many combinations. Below are just a few. You can click on the thumbnail photos to find out more about the various The Last Supper tours and the current prices.

• Last Supper Tickets and Guide
• Price: $52.33

• Best of Milan: Duomo and Da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' or Vineyard Tour
• Price: $118.93

• 'The Last Supper' and Sforza Castle Tour
• Price: $53.52

• Skip the Line: Essential Milan Tour with Da Vinci's 'The Last Supper'
• Price: $80.87

You can also try these companies for availability. They all offer The Last Supper tickets as part of a tour package: Take Walks , Veltra City Discovery , and, again, Viator . For other reputable tour companies, see our section "Plan Your Trip to Milan" below.

How to Buy Last Supper Tickets through the Official Booking Site

1. Go to the official Last Supper booking page by clicking on this link to Vivaticket . It takes you to the "Cenacolo Vinciano" page, which is Italian for The Last Supper . If the page is not in English, switch the language in the upper right corner.

2. Before you can make a booking on Vivaticket, you have to sign up for an account. Click the button at the top of the page that says "Register". Alternatively, before you register, you can check if there are Last Supper tickets available for the time you are visiting (follow instructions below). If there are no available tickets, there's no need to register.

3. At the top of the page under "CENACOLO VINCIANO", it shows you a date range; this is the time period for which you can buy tickets at the moment. Then scroll down to the calendar.

4. Vivaticket's "pre-sale opening" announcement under the calendar is a bit confusing. Basically, this shows you that you cannot book too far in advance. For example, "13th February opening reservation for May and June" means that if you want to book The Last Supper tickets for May or June, you have to wait until February 13 before booking is even possible.

5. Check the calendar for available dates and tickets. You can change months by clicking the > symbol on the calendar. Days with available The Last Supper tickets are highlighted in green. Click your desired day. (If there is no availability for your preferred day, it is worth checking back over the next few days to see if there are any cancellations.)

6. When you click your desired day, a selection of available time slots opens up. Available times are also highlighted in green. To see how many The Last Supper tickets are available for that time slot, hover over the highlighted time with your cursor. Click your desired time slot.

7. Most people will need to select the "Intero" for full priced The Last Supper tickets. Presumably, if you qualify for any of the discounts, you will be able to read them. As of 2020, the price for a Last Supper entry ticket is 12 euros per person.

8. After signing in or registering and agreeing to Europe's data protection regulations, select the number of tickets you want to buy next to "Intero" (you can only purchase a maximum of five Last Supper tickets in one booking) and click "buy". This takes you to the next page. After clicking on "Warning: Missing some fields" next to the price, you are asked to enter the first and last name of the "reservation owner". This should be the name of a person in your group who can show a valid ID upon picking up your tickets at the convent. (Note: You can use the same name on all tickets; person paying and person picking up tickets don't have to be identical.) From there, the steps are pretty straightforward. Just make sure you read through everything. You will have to complete payment, print The Last Supper tickets and bring them with you to the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Here is a link to the convent on Google Maps .

It may feel like a lot of work for a painting, but - hey - it's The Last Supper . ALSO, the museum offers free admission the first Sunday of every month; however, you still have to make a ticket reservation. Vivaticket doesn't allow reserving the free tickets through their online system, but requires visitors to call the Vivaticket call center. (For their phone number and operating hours, see "Plan Your Trip to Milan" at the end of this article.)

What to Expect from Your Visit to The Last Supper

The visit itself is quite hilarious. First, we waited outside for our time slot. Second, a guard herded us into a pre-waiting room where they verified that we all had The Last Supper tickets for the correct time slot. Next, they scanned our tickets and compressed us into a Bond-style, climate-controlled glass room. Finally, you enter the refectory containing the painting.

Even though both of us had seen the painting in documentaries,  The Last Supper  was larger and more impressive than we expected. We stared up - way up - in disbelief oohing and ahhing in the presence of greatness. Then we debated the enigmatic V-shape at the center of the painting which served as a major plot point in The Da Vinci Code . Afterwards, we eyed John the Apostle - he sure did look like Mary Magdalene to us! Maybe Dan Brown was on to something.

After 13 of our 15 allotted minutes with the painting, we turned around to discover that there was another painting on the opposite wall, Crucifixion by Giovanni Donato da Montorfano. As you can see in the photo above, a single man - a clear rebel - defied convention and stood alone admiring the magnificent fresco. In contrast to The Last Supper , the massive work was well preserved and full of detail and color. Somehow, it had never occurred to us that there was a second painting in the refectory. Poor da Montorfano, da Vinci stole all his glory.

We took one last moment to take in Crucifixion  and glanced back at The Last Supper as a woman screamed hysterically over a loudspeaker trying to get our group out at the precise minute we were required to exit. Her booming voice echoed through the room reverberating off the walls. I'm sure that future generations will add that loudspeaker to the long list of atrocities that have been committed against da Vinci's masterpiece. We turned and quickly exited for posterity.

Don't Miss the Amazing San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

If you've read this far, you must be a real art lover and therefore you deserve an extra tip, right? After all, seeing The Last Supper is just one of the cool things to do in Milan. The gorgeous San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is just a few blocks down the street from Chiesa Santa Maria delle Grazie and its interior is a major highlight. Every square inch of the interior is covered in 16th-century frescoes. And entry is FREE! Make sure to walk through the little door on the left to see the stunning Hall of Nuns with more frescoes. And if you need even more, the courtyard behind the church contains remnants of the Roman-era wall (with a surviving tower) that once surrounded Milan. Fantastic!

And Finally, a Few Last Supper Facts for Art and History Buffs

When did leonardo paint  the last supper .

Leonardo da Vinci painted The Last Supper in the late 15th century, between 1494-1498.

How Big Is The Last Supper ?

The painting is much bigger than you might expect; it is 29 feet by 15 feet, or 8.8 meters by 4.6 meters.

Is Today's Mural the Same as da Vinci's Original?

When da Vinci was asked to paint The Last Supper on a wall in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, he chose to paint on dry wall rather than on wet plaster as is traditionally done in frescoes. This meant that the famous painting started to deteriorate almost immediately.

As if that weren’t problem enough, The Last Supper has a history of abuse which would be laughable if it weren’t so sad. French troops actually used this refectory as a stall! And Allied troops dropped a bomb on the neighboring church!!! Ah, humanity.

Sadly, after many restorations, only few of da Vinci's original brush strokes remain.

What Happened to Jesus' Feet?

In case you wonder, a doorway was cut into the wall in 1652, right where da Vinci had painted Jesus' feet. What makes this somewhat excusable is that the painting was in such bad shape at the time, it was hardly recognizable. The doorway was later filled in and painted over.

Why is The Last Supper Not in a Museum?

It would be almost impossible to move The Last Supper from Santa Maria delle Grazie because da Vinci painted the famous mural directly onto a wall in the convent's dining hall.

Did da Vinci Ever Paint The Last Supper in Oil?

He never did, but two of his assistants painted exact copies of The Last Supper in the early 16th century. You can find Giampietrino's copy in the collection of the Royal Academy of Arts in London, and Cesare da Sesto's copy in the Church of St. Ambrogio in Ponte Capriasca in Switzerland. Another copy by Andrea Solari is displayed in the Tongerlo Abbey's Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Belgium.

Recently, London's Royal Academy of Arts partnered with Google Arts and Culture to digitize The Last Supper painted by Giampietrino. This high-resolution digital version features many more details than the painting in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Among those are Thomas' raised finger, Jesus's feet, and a salt shaker knocked over by Judas. To check out the incredible details, go to Google Arts & Culture .

Plan Your Trip to Milan

When to Go - Milan's climate is characterized by hot humid summers and cold foggy winters. Best time to visit is spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). We went in December, between Christmas and New Years and absolutely loved it. Yes, it was chilly, but the holiday festivities made up for it.

The Last Supper Museum Hours – The refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, which houses The Last Supper , is closed on Mondays. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 AM to 7:00 PM. If you happen to visit on the first Sunday of the month, Last Supper tickets are free. However, you have to reserve the free tickets by calling the Vivaticket call center ahead of time. By the way, they do speak English. From outside of Italy, call +39 0292800360 (39 is the country code for Italy), from inside of Italy call 800990084 toll-free. Again, you cannot purchase Last Supper tickets at the museum in Milan directly. You can purchase tickets either through Vivaticket - online or by phone - OR from a reputable tour operator.

The Last Supper Tours – The cheapest tickets for The Last Supper are available on Vivaticket , the museum's official website. However, these entry tickets are often booked out in advance. If this is the case, you can always try to join a guided tour to see The Last Supper . There are many reputable tour operators, some of which are Veltra City Discovery , Viator , Dark Rome , or Take Walks , a fantastic company which we have personally used and can highly recommend.

Accommodation - Milan has plenty of accommodation, but during high season from April through October, make sure to book early. We recommend searching for great hotel deals in Milan on our favorite hotel booking site hotels.com and agoda .

If you plan to stay for more than a few nights, we recommend booking an apartment through Airbnb (which we did). If you haven’t used Airbnb before and you click through this link here , you get a credit toward your first stay. The amount varies, but it’s usually between $30 and $40. Not too bad.

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21 responses to “Plan your Visit to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper”

Did you finally manage to book through the official site? I tried using it and it was so confusing. If you did book through them, how much did it cost?

Hey Jeri, I just added some tips at the end of the post on how to navigate the official site. It’s really is a complete usability nightmare, isn’t it? If you follow the steps I added above, you should be able to get the tickets. At the moment, full priced tickets including the booking fee are 8 Euros.

Hi Tony! We’re going to Milan this Oct 01-02 but we can’t find tickets to see the Last supper. I really need your help.

I know it’s very nerve-wracking, but be patient and keep checking Vivaticket , the official booking site for The Last Supper tickets. They will eventually announce the pre-booking dates for October. It’s a very random process, sometimes they do it two months in advance, sometimes just a couple of weeks.

If you check Viator’s tours, you will see that they cannot confirm any bookings for October as well. They themselves are waiting for Vivaticket’s announcement. So again, just check Vivaticket every day until they show October on their calendar. At that point, you can see which days are available and either book tickets directly with them or book a guided tour with, for example, Viator. Good luck!

Well, as you know, I kinda freak out in crowded places, so better you than me. And how did Rick Steves finagle a private showing? Hey – he’s from Edmonds, Washington; I’m from Edmonds, Washington; his sister palled around with my brother in high school; you’d think maybe I could get special treatment in Europe too….

I really like the Noah’s Ark painting, and Thomas framed in the doorway with a bunch of guys in robes arguing some point over his head.

It looks much bigger than I thought it would be.

I know. We had seen several documentaries on the painting, and we always thought that it was much smaller and lower to the ground.

Hi Tony, I was checking out the tickets for the day I will be in Milan. I was late for 10 days and now not a single day of the month I’ll be there is available. Should I still go and take a chance if they sell tickets there or should I book in tour sites even its overpriced?

It’s a gamble. If you are there for ten days, you might try going in on the first or second day to see if something is available and if not, you would still have time to book a tour. That’s a thought.

[…]  1 , […]

No new dates have opened in May, June, or July for October tickets. The last time it appears tickets were made available was in April for visits through August. I thought they opened monthly for the future months. I am desperate to get for middle of October. Should I call, if so what number to get English? Or should I continue to wait for online availability in October? I have read so much about difficulties with the online site. Thank you!

Thanks for contacting us and sorry to hear you have such problems booking your tickets. Unfortunately, Vivaticket – the official booking site – doesn’t update their pre-booking dates on a monthly basis.

I inquired with Vivaticket by phone, and confirmed that pre-booking for September and October has not been opened yet. Unfortunately, they couldn’t give me a date, not even an approximate date. They suggested to check the Vivaticket website daily where the pre-booking dates will be announced.

I also checked with Viator and other booking sites, but September and October seem to be blocked on all of them. I suppose, they are also waiting to hear from Vivaticket.

I hope this helped. Please check Vivaticket’s website regularly. October will be after the summer holidays in Europe, so you should have a good chance of getting tickets.

Vivatickets just announced their reservation opening for The Last Supper tickets for October, November and December 2017.

You will be able to book tickets for October starting September 19, and for November and December starting September 28.

If you get confused booking your ticket, make sure you follow our step-by-step instructions above.

Hello I’ll be in Milan on February 4th which lands on the first Sunday of the month. Will it still b opened and how can I get tickets? Having major issues with website.

Dear Amida,

The museum is open on February 4, 2018. Since it is the first Sunday of the month, entry to The Last Supper is free. Having said that, you still have to book a “free” ticket through the official website at Vivaticket .

I just checked the website’s calendar and noticed that February 4 is not available to book (for whatever reason). This could mean this particular day is not available anymore or it’s not available through their online booking system. You can try to call them (they do speak English) at +39 (0)292800360 (39 is the country code for Italy. Try it first with the zero at the beginning of the phone number, if that doesn’t work, try it without the zero).

If you don’t have any luck booking through Vivaticket either online or by phone, you can try booking a tour (which means you don’t get free entry). Many tour companies have available tickets. Check out this link to Viator . They have limited availability, but I see open spots for those tours: “Skip the Line: Essential Milan Tour Including Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper'” and for “Milan Half-Day Sightseeing Tour with da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper'”. There might be others, so you need to check. Another tour company, City Discovery , has availability for this tour: “Skip the Line Da Vinci’s Last Supper and Milan City Tour”.

I hope this helped.

All the best,

You’ve saved the day! My mum and I booked a last minute trip to Milan and every touring site we looked into was sold out or $600CAD for 2 tickets. MuseumTicketReservations.com was the only option but also the cheapest by far. Thanks so much!

Thanks so much Alessandra for the feedback. I’m glad you were able to find tickets that fit your budget. Have fun in Milan, it’s a great place to explore.

beautiful website with great photos and information, well done indeed

Thank you Steve, we appreciate it.

Thanks for great information, both current and historical.

Happy to hear it was useful.

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Is a Tour of Da Vinci’s Last Supper Worth It?

Angel Castellanos Last Updated: January 4, 2023

Planning to visit Milan and want to know if a guided tour of the Last Supper worth it? This article will go over what to expect from a Last Supper tour and the benefits. This way, you can decide if it’s right for you.

Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to Milan? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our guide to Milan for more resources to help you plan your trip. Also, don’t miss our tours of the Last Supper and more around Milan !

What Does It Mean to “See the Last Supper”?

The Last Supper is one of the most recognizable art pieces from the Renaissance and recognized worldwide as one of the greatest art masterpieces of all time. This artwork by Leonardo da Vinci has been the subject of various Hollywood movies, history books, novels, and essays. The image is forever emblazoned in our collective consciousness and is part of the story of humanity.

I grew up staring at the piece my whole life as my parents had a replica above our dining room table. The action and dramatic scene painted by da Vinci were a sharp contrast to the somber religious works my mother had around the house, and it reminded me of my brothers and I at the dinner table. I always wondered if the actual painting looked like the print in my parents’ home. One thing I did know is that I had to see it for myself.

The Last Supper is found in a small church in Milan called the Basilica of Santa Maria Della Grazie. It’s the most notable piece of art here, but there is also a museum dedicated to this masterpiece, its history, and restoration projects that you can also explore. Your guide will share the fascinating stories behind this painting and the painstaking restoration.

Not ready to jump into a tour? Read more about The Last Supper .

Areas of Interest

The Last Supper by Da Vinci has survived major chaotic historical events like the French Revolution with the subsequent invasion of Napoleon and miraculously WW2. The precious masterpiece also underwent a painstaking 20-year restoration that finally ended in 1999.

So you can imagine that you can’t just walk in to see this piece of art like many works found in churches throughout Italy. Since this is such a unique piece of art, the length of each visit and the number of people allowed to enter are strictly limited. Here are the key areas you’ll want to make sure you explore when you go see The Last Supper.

The Dining Hall

The famous mural is inside the Dominican Dining Hall of the Basilica of Santa Maria Della Grazie. The long rectangular hall with white-washed walls is where Leonardo da Vinci worked from 1495-1498 to complete his masterpiece.

The room is dimly lit, and the wall with The Last Supper is on the right. Photographs are allowed, but video is prohibited.

Small Exhibition

Once your timed session is over, all visitors enter the small museum adjacent to the dining hall. This room is a small exhibition with photos and information about the meticulous restoration of this unique piece of art.

Here your guide will continue sharing stories about The Last Supper and give you an overview of the delicate repair process. You will have time to examine several before and after displays.

The Small Garden and Courtyard

There is a small garden and courtyard outside of the church and dining hall. This area is where you will exit and where the guided tour will end.

Take time to reflect on the opportunity to see one of the most significant art pieces once you’re outside again.

Is a Tour of The Last Supper Worth It?

Short answer: Yes, it is worth it for a few reasons.

We’re a tour company, so we believe in the value of a professional guide, but we don’t sell tours of everything on Earth—just the most noteworthy. A great tour guide can make history come alive and fun, but not everything needs a guided tour.

However, The Last Supper is one of the most famous paintings made by a fascinating artist. Since you only get 15 minutes with da Vinci’s Last Supper , why not maximize your time and experience?

Not only that, but there is much to learn. We have a couple articles on The Last Supper written by a Ph.D. historian  to help you understand this masterpiece. These are a must-read for anyone visiting Milan. Ultimately, our goal is to enrich the global community with culture and knowledge. 

You can purchase tickets to visit The Last Supper independently, so your main question should be, whether or not a licensed guide is worth it. Here are a few key reasons why a guided tour of The Last Supper is your best bet.

Guaranteed, Skip-the-Line Tickets

The timed-entry tickets to see The Last Supper means there is only one line that all visitors can enter. There are two reasons why booking with us is the most beneficial option. Tickets for the general public sell out quickly, often weeks in advance. We pre-purchase our tickets, so you’re guaranteed entry if you reserve a tour with us.

Your guide also makes it easy to get through the line and ticketing process while preparing you with informative context before entering the church. While inside, the guide will maximize the precious 15 minutes you have inside to view the masterpiece. I didn’t take my eyes off it for the solid 15 minutes while enjoying the fun factoids from the tour guide.

See More Than Expected

There are two works of art in the church dining hall. One you already know, and the other you probably don’t. That’s where your guide will really come in handy since they’ll enlighten you about this other unique piece that’s also one of da Vinci’s.

The second painting is found opposite to  The Last Supper  by da Vinci, so be sure to take just a moment to appreciate this piece too. Another piece of art you’ll see is the fresco of the crucifixion painted by Giovanni Donato da Montorfano.

A guided tour will ensure you maximize your understanding of da Vinci and  The Last Supper  since you traveled so far to see this masterpiece. When you leave, you’ll be confident you had the entire experience of all that’s available in this little church.

Great Tour Guides

We run small group and private tours that are of higher quality than most due to our excellent guides who have a passion for their city and a deep understanding of their subject. A guide can elevate your experience at a museum or on a city walking tour since they’ll keep you engaged with stories and helpful information to enrich your time in a new city.

The Most Popular Tours of The Last Supper

Which tour is best for you? That depends on budget, time, energy, and your travel goals. Below are our most popular tours of The Last Supper .

Da Vinci’s Last Supper and the Duomo: Milan in a Half Day

On this tour, you’ll have skip-the-line access to both the Duomo and The Last Supper . Your English-speaking guide will share fascinating stories of the tragic history and restoration of da Vinci’s mural, bring to life the epic history of the Milan cathedral, and lead you through the most iconic mall and neighborhoods of Milan. Read more about it on the tour page. See tour itinerary, price, and description

Skip the Line Last Supper Tour

If you prefer guaranteed access to The Last Supper without other attractions included, this is your best bet. You’ll meet your tour guide outside the church where they’ll help verify your ticket then escort you into the church. Tickets to The Last Supper usually sell out months in advance, so booking this quick tour is a good idea if you want to see Leonardo da Vinci’s restored painting without any other activities.

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Not ready to jump into a tour? Read more about the Last Supper .

Where To Stay in Milan

Milan is a small city with plenty to explore from iconic landmarks to a vibrant art and design scene and old-world charm. Plan where to stay in the best neighborhoods in this beautiful city.

About Angel Castellanos

Angel Castellanos, www.AngelsTravelLounge.com , is a multi-media travel expert and travel journalist that has appeared on BBC News, Los Angeles Times, Fox News, ABC, NBC, CBS, Univision, Frommers Radio, USA Today. Angel is also an acclaimed speaker appearing as a featured travel expert with the Travel & Adventure Show and New York Times Travel Show. 80+ Countries, 5 Continents and counting. He's passionate about travel to Europe, especially to Italy & France, countries he's visited every year of his adult life.

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7 Things You Probably Never Knew about the Last Supper Painting

• GodUpdates www.godupdates.com
• Updated Aug 09, 2024

For those who are unfamiliar with the biblical event, the “Last Supper” was the final meal that Jesus shared with his disciples (close followers) before he was crucified. In keeping with the Jewish holiday, it is believed to have been a Passover meal celebrating the Jews’ escape from slavery in Egypt. It was during this meal that Jesus announced he had been betrayed by one of his closest followers  (John 13:21) – this is the moment frozen in time by da Vinci.

RELATED: 20+ Easter Hymns Your Church Should Be Singing This Year

Leonardo da Vinci started his famous painting, The Last Supper,  in 1495. After several failed projects, it may have been taken on to merely “pay the bills.” Being 43 years old at the time, Leonardo was quickly falling behind what some would have assumed his potential dictated. He hoped that this work would turn things around and make his mark on the art world.

7. The Last Supper – Story of a Painting Experiment Gone Wrong

Watch: fresco-styled painting (what leonardo chose to ignore).

6. The Last Supper – Leonardo Da Vinci’s Instant Success

Leonardo had a reputation for not finishing his work. With The Last Supper , he hoped to make a name for himself and truly create a masterpiece. This goal was quickly achieved. Unlike many famous paintings, da Vinci was able to see the importance of this work in his lifetime. When Leonardo completed his mural, it was instantly popular. Historian and author Ross King has spent years researching the mastermind that was Leonardo da Vinci.

“It was the most copied painting of the next century - not only in paint, but also in marble, wax and terracotta,” King shared. “Everyone wanted a version of it. Leonardo had finally created the ‘work of fame’ about which he dreamed.”

RELATED: 3 Powerful Prayers Jesus Prayed To God (And You Can Too)

5. The Last Supper – Survival Of The Fittest

The Last Supper has been through its share of trauma. Twenty years after it’s completion, the painting began to chip and fade. The church was not motivated to preserve it. They cut a door into the painting directly through Christ’s feet, which were painted in crucifix-style to foreshadow his death on the cross . The painting was no longer seen as an important piece of history.

During the Napoleonic Wars, troops were housed in the church itself. There they used the painting as target practice. Much of Jesus’ face sustained damage. As patrons of religious art began to value the painting again, preparations were made for World War 2.

Scaffolding and sandbags were placed against the painting in hopes of protecting it. These efforts proved valuable when a bomb landed close to the church, destroying it’s roof and many walls. But The Last Supper  remained!

RELATED: Divine Intervention — The Last Supper Painting Saves 3-Year-Old Who Fell Out A Window

4. The Last Supper – It’s Not The Only One

Two other almost exact replicas exist of The Last Supper . Believed to be painted by Leonardo’s assistants, the copies are both in well-preserved states. Perhaps they chose to recreate the piece as a true fresco ? One is held in the Royal Academy of Arts in London and the other decorates the Church of St. Ambrogio in Ponte Capriasca, Switzerland.

It is these copies that give us an idea of what da Vinci’s masterpiece would have looked like had it survived in better condition. There are many who choose to skip the lines and 15 minute viewing time to see The Last Supper  in Switzerland instead of Italy!

3. The Last Supper – Symbolism of Jesus’ Feet

While he chose to push the envelope with how he created the work, the importance of the “teachable moment” was not ignored. In The Last Supper , each disciple was carefully placed, their actions and expressions not left to chance. Leonardo placed each detail with great thought – Jesus’ originally had feet, intentionally placed in “crucifix style” to foreshadow that which was to come. Unfortunately, the importance of this part of the painting was no consideration when in 1652 a doorway was cut directly through the bottom central half of the painting, whereby eliminating a key element of foreshadowing!

RELATED: 9 Fruits of the Spirit Prayers to Pray to Be More Like Jesus

2. The Last Supper – More Italian Than Jewish

In keeping with wanting to influence viewers of his work, da Vinci’s The Last Supper  displays more Italian cultural aspects than Jewish ones. Relating his painting to the people of his era, da Vinci was careful to present a historical moment frozen in time that was easily understood by its viewers. The accepted religious traditions at the time were Catholic. Many of the elements in The Last Supper  reinforce the cultural faith practices of the day.

Believing that the last supper shared by Jesus and the disciples was a Passover meal, there would have been strict dietary requirements. Round loaves of Italian bread would not have been on the menu. But there are even more obvious issues with the image many of us associate with the story of the biblical last supper.

If indeed it was a Passover meal, it would have been held at sunset. No sunlight pouring through what is obviously an Italian landscape and not Jerusalem. Understandably, da Vinci wanted to show all of the disciples seated at the table– but the disciples likely were lounged around a low U-shaped table. Even the robes worn by the disciples are painted in a very romanticized view of the era.

While it cannot be proved, da Vinci was probably not asked to paint an historically accurate Last Supper, but rather the essence of the event. A visual to encourage response and connection with its viewers. Rumour has it that da Vinci roamed the streets and even prisons of Milan to find the inspirations for the faces of the disciples. Thus creating essentially a beautiful Italian representation of this important moment in the lives of the disciples.

1. The Last Supper – Leonardo’s Painting, or Not?

Mauro Pellicioli, in 1949, did the most extensive restoration to date by trying to reseal the painting with shellac. Enter Dr. Barcilon in the 1970’s, who had new technology to introduce – xray! Here’s what the painting looked like before she began her 20-year restoration project:

While there are some who dispute the need to have restored the painting again, or whether the x-ray technology used was the best method, it is interesting to note that many small details previously lost have been reclaimed. An orange here, a hand or cloth there. It was also decided that what could not be 100% confirmed as Leonardo’s work should instead be painted in beige. Thus, The Last Supper  painting seen today is actually more about reading between the lines!

This content originally appeared on GodUpdates.com ; used with permission.

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Venice is being destroyed by tourism – a £100 entry fee might be the only solution

T ourism – we have a problem. As the populations of the world have become richer and more mobile, the balance is tipping. The numbers who want to visit the most beautiful and famous cities, landscapes and sights are starting to outweigh those places’ capacity to cope. We are slowly but surely destroying the destinations we love, and a few of the worst affected have started to react – either through the spontaneous protests from local residents that we have seen in places such as Mallorca and Barcelona, or through more bureaucratic attempts to stem the tide.

Earlier this summer, Venice  trialled a €5 (£4.30) fee for day-trippers , which looks likely to return – at double the price – next year. Now the Greek government is reported to be considering imposing charges for cruise-ship passengers who land at specific places, with a €10 fee being suggested for the picturesque Greek island of Santorini, for example. 

Let’s be honest. Piffling charges like this will do nothing to deter significant numbers of visitors. They are simply a way of skimming off some compensatory revenue instead. This might be a good thing in some cases. The £8 entry fee introduced for visitors to Bali last February is supposed to fund projects that benefit the local community. In Venice, however, it hasn’t even done that. The municipality  has conceded that the revenue earned from the charge was roughly the same as the administrative cost of collecting it.

But we also have to be honest that this is an extremely difficult problem to solve, and in my mind there are only two blunt instruments that can be used. The first is to weigh in with much heftier visitor charges. Some places already do this. Bhutan charges a daily “sustainable development fee” of US$200 (£156) for an adult in high season – which adds a hefty £2,000 to a two-week holiday. That, combined with the need to fly via India, keeps visitor numbers to the mountain kingdom (which has a population of around 790,000) down to about 350,000 a year, as well as bringing in substantial revenue.

Could you charge day-trippers something much more significant – say, £100 – for access to Venice , or £50 to visit Santorini from a cruise ship? It’s not unthinkable. Would it be fair to potentially price out the less wealthy? Should these places be open to all no matter what damage is being done or how unbearable they become? Is an invasion of thousands of cruise passengers at a time really fair on a small island? Would it turn them into a rich person’s playground instead? I’m not sure. After all, it can cost more than £80 to watch a Premier League football match, and the admission price for a day in Disneyland Paris (at peak time) is £97. If you want to see somewhere enough, you will make the investment.

Of course, there are potential ethical implications in charging someone to visit a city or an island. But now that Venice has crossed that Rubicon, it is simply a question of how much it decides to raise the price. And there are many other cases where equally awkward ethical considerations have been outweighed by financial need. Want to visit St Paul’s Cathedral outside of service times? It will cost you £25 (unless you are happy to pray in a tiny chapel by the door).

The other main option is a ceiling on numbers. That already works in some specific and controllable situations. The Louvre put a cap on maximum daily visits last year. If you want to see Leonardo’s  Last Supper in Milan, or Giotto’s frescos in the Scrovegni Chapel in Padua, you have long had to book  – days in advance – one of a limited number of time slots. Without that control, the frescos would fade away because of the increased moisture in the atmosphere. 

In some cases you even have to pay to visit the natural world. To walk the Milford Track in New Zealand or the Inca Trail in Peru, you have to apply for one of a limited number of permits, which may sell out weeks or maybe months in advance. And to climb Mount Whitney in California (or to experience popular parts of certain other US national parks), you will need to apply for a permit via a lottery (and pay a $15 fee if you win one).

Maybe there is a halfway house. Perhaps you hold a lottery for free access to a certain number of tickets so that, if you are lucky or try hard enough, it is possible to visit such destinations without a charge. Perhaps you also allow free admission for under-21s. But I’m convinced the only thing that will make a real difference to overtourism – apart, perhaps, from limiting the number of flights in the world, is money. An entry fee of £5 or £10 won’t cut it; £50 might; £100 surely would. But then you will, of course, create new and never-ending controversies. 

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Sunday letters: Wickford's rising water levels; Paris Olympics controversy

More needs to be done in Wickford harbor

In the news story on Wickford harbor flood control construction ( "Keeping the bay ... at bay," News, August 9 ), Journal reporter Jonny Williams wrote that “photos show large metal columns jutting out of the water along the Brown Street parking lot seawall, like jagged teeth in the maw of a sea monster.” What a writer! Thank you for so aptly covering the much needed work on a frequently flooded area. 

Maybe Mr. Williams could report on another problem with Wickford harbor: the ineffectual breakwater that protects the entire harbor from Narragansett Bay. Over the years of bulging sea levels the boulder breakwater increasingly disappears under most high tides. During Superstorm Sandy there was much damage to moored boats in the harbor and boats and docks at Pleasant Street Wharf and Wickford Marina. The big seas just rolled over the barrier like it wasn’t there, which, in effect, it wasn’t. 

The state and town politicians don’t seem to be doing anything about the problem other than pointing at the Army Corps of Engineers. As far as I can tell they aren’t doing anything either. Where is the federal infrastructure money?

Kudos to Jonny Williams for a fine article. 

John D.H. Smith, North Kingstown

False accusations about Olympics ceremony

There have been two letters in the Journal slamming the 2024 Paris Olympics and accusing organizers of blasphemy and more with regard to a performance during the opening ceremonies, stating that one of the tableaus defames the Christian Last Supper and somehow depicts Christ and the apostles. This is a false accusation.

According to Olympics ceremony Artistic Director Thomas Jolly: “The idea was to depict a big pagan celebration, linked to the gods of Olympus, and thus the Olympics.” The tableau was called “Festivity” and there was no interest to replicate the famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci. I do concede and understand the apparent resemblance to the Leonardo's mural in Milan, history holds many such celebratory banquet images. The performance in Paris had over two dozen participants lined up and the focus was on the mythical god Dionysus emerging from a giant serving dish. Any perception here of “The Last Supper“ is then in the eye of the beholder. And if any apologies are due they should go to the Olympic committee and the celebration performers for these erroneous accusations.  

Unfortunately there are many in this world who do harbor bigotry and prejudice and attack others for their beliefs (figuratively and literally). This is to be condemned. The Olympic games on the other hand hold a beacon for universal understanding and cooperation among our diverse cultures, races, religions, and nations. The Paris Olympics 2024 embodied this and we should keep our eyes on this prize.

Bill Newkirk, Providence

The writer is a professor emeritus, Rhode Island School of Design.

Incompetence rules the state

I have just witnessed the spectacular closing ceremonies of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.  The theme featured a salute to the original Olympics held in Greece and the creation of the iconic five-ring Olympic flag symbolizing the five participating continents.

A sort of "rebirth," the five equal circles were erected as "workers" created the circles separately, carefully raised them to a vertical position, rolled them into place, precisely suspended and positioned them until they formed the five-ring Olympic symbol. It was brilliantly designed and executed by hundreds of talented dancers and gymnasts, backed by breathtaking lights, music, and witnessed by the entire Olympic theater.  A brilliant tour de force.

And Rhode Island can't build a bridge. After the tragic accident that caused the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore to collapse on March 26, all maritime traffic into the harbor was fully reopened on May 20, after a massive cleanup effort to remove an estimated 50,000 tons of steel and concrete from the port, blocked by the bridge's wreckage. March 24 to May 20. Two months!         

And Rhode Island can't build a bridge.

Less than a year after a massive tanker truck crash and fire caused I-95 to collapse in northeast Philadelphia on June 11, 2023, Gov. Josh Shapiro announced that a 6-lane temporary highway would open on June 23, 2023, just 12 days after the initial fire and collapse. In less than a year, the new permanent highway was rebuilt and opened to full traffic.

Vive La France! Shame on Rhode Island!

James P. Galkin, Cranston

A critical decision to make in November

Right now the Democrats are content with keeping Vice President Kamala Harris in a bubble, and letting the media do her work for her. Apparently, she is so busy helping run the country that she has been unable to hold a press conference since Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the race on July 21.

The American people have a critical decision to make in November, depending on whether they want the country to remain as it has been for generations, or continue drifting precipitously into an unrecognizable socialist nation.  Prior to Present Biden’s withdrawal from seeking a second term, Vice President Harris’ poll numbers were even lower than Biden’s. In fact, the same legacy media now extolling her reported she had the lowest poll numbers of any previous vice president.

Can anyone explain what has changed? Although there is much more to say, I’ll end by asking voters if they were better off pre-pandemic during President Trump’s presidency than they are now under the Biden-Harris administration?

Peter Buonfiglio, Cranston

Vance wrong to question opponent's military service

I honor and thank both JD Vance and Tim Walz for their military service.  But, as a veteran myself, I am disgusted by Vance’s despicable attack on Walz’s National Guard service record. 

Like both of those gentlemen, I was fortunate not to have experienced combat during my two years in the Army during the Vietnam War.  The percentage of GIs who actually saw combat during their service time was, then and now, relatively low.  The point of service was the willingness to set self interest aside for the greater good of the country.  While actually seeing combat certainly “ups the ante” and deserves additional honor and praise, all who served in whatever capacity deserve thanks, credit, and dignity.

For Vance to question the valor and experience of a fellow vet speaks to his abject lack of character and integrity.  His own standard bearer famously dodged the draft and never served.  Vance should turn his attention to that individual and leave Tim Walz alone.

Jim Manchester, Bristol

'Politically appointed' CRMC

It is unfortunate that in the article " Judge permits couple to keep seawall private " (News, August 14), the reporter gratuitously labeled the Coastal Resources Management Council as "politically appointed," thereby implying it was a flawed group. 

I must point out that the Superior Court judge in the case was also "politically appointed" by the governor and subject to Senate approval, just as the Council members.

Laurence W. Ehrhardt, North Kingstown

The writer is a former State Representative and CRMC member.