Santa Maria delle Grazie

One of the most profound artistic experiences in Milan is viewing Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entry to the Last Supper requires advance booking as visitor slots are limited and often sell out weeks or even months ahead. Expect security checks and a brief orientation before entering. The viewing lasts for 15 minutes.

Da Vinci's Last Supper depicts the moment when Jesus announces to his disciples that one of them will betray him, resulting in a surge of trepidation among his apostles. It was painted between the years 1495 and 1498. It measures 460cm in height and 880cm in length and is displayed on the northern wall of the refectory. The rest of the church, especially the cloisters, is also worth checking out.


Across the Last Supper, on the left wall of the refectory, is another significant artwork, the Crucifixion, by the Milanese painter Donato Montorfano. The Chiostro Delle Rane, also called the Chiostro Piccolo, is also worth visiting inside the church. It has a gorgeous fountain with four bronze frogs spewing water at its centre.