Located in Milan, northern Italy, Santa Maria delle Grazie is a breathtaking church, Dominican convent, and UNESCO World Heritage Site that you must see on your travels. It is world-famous for housing Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic mural, The Last Supper, located inside the convent's historic refectory. Originally ordered by Duke Francesco I Sforza, the site features a Gothic nave designed by architect Guiniforte Solari and completed by 1469.
Duke Ludovico Sforza later transformed the church into the Sforza family burial site, where his wife Beatrice was buried in 1497, adding a redesigned apse frequently attributed to Donato Bramante, alongside potential designs by Giovanni Antonio Amadeo. As you explore, you will discover remarkable artistic details, including Gaudenzio Ferrari’s vivid Stories of the Passion frescoes in the Chapel of the Holy Crown, Bramantino’s cloister fresco, and frescoes by Bernardo Zenale. You can also visit the Bramante-designed Old Sacristy (Sacrestia vecchia), home to a Dominican Cultural Centre.
Having remarkably survived World War II aerial bombardments in 1943 behind protective sandbags, followed by major modern conservation efforts completed in 1999, this extraordinary site offers you an unforgettable encounter with world art and Italian history.
What to see at Santa Maria delle Grazie
- Leonardo da Vinci's famous mural, The Last Supper, preserved in the refectory
- Gothic nave designed by architect Guiniforte Solari
- Redesigned Renaissance apse and Old Sacristy attributed to Donato Bramante
- Gaudenzio Ferrari's Stories of the Passion frescoes in the Chapel of the Holy Crown
- Historic refectory wall that survived 1943 World War II aerial bombardment
Visiting tips
Take time to notice the refectory's modern environmental protections that shield Leonardo's mural from dust, fumes, and humidity.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Santa Maria delle Grazie is easy to reach on Milan’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Milan Cathedral and La Scala. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Milan travel guide.
See the full Milan travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.