The Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie is one of the architectural pearls of Milan and all of Italy, a masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance, universally recognized not only for its intrinsic beauty but also because it hosts one of the greatest treasures of world art.
Santa Maria delle Grazie, Renaissance of the spirit
Built between 1463 and 1497, the basilica is an impeccable example of Lombard Gothic style, later enriched with Renaissance elements added by Bramante.
The building was commissioned by Duke Ludovico il Moro with the intention of creating a family mausoleum.
The austere facade contrasts beautifully with the finely decorated interior. The nave, with vaulted ceilings and elegant columns, is adorned with frescoes and decorations that narrate biblical stories and depict saints with unparalleled craftsmanship.
The interior of the church is characterized by a rigorous geometric setting, based on precise proportional ratios. This meticulous attention to measurements is also reflected in the hut-like facade, entirely clad in brick, as the south side of the church, which is the only visible.
The facade is divided into five zones thanks to six protruding buttresses, which clearly reveal the internal structure, articulated in naves and chapels. On the side, too, the sequence of buttresses indicates the internal subdivision of the chapels, each of which is illuminated by two large ogive windows and a central rose window.
The magnificently decorated high altar and the beautiful stained glass windows that filter natural light create an environment of rare beauty and deep spirituality.
The basilica was not only a place of worship but also a vital center for the Milanese community, having often hosted important religious and social events.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the basilica is its cloister, a corner of peace and beauty hidden in the hectic heart of Milan.
The cloister of the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie is one of the most fascinating corners of the monastic complex. It is a space designed for meditation and the gathering of monks, characterized by harmony and symmetry that invite contemplation.
The cloister is surrounded by a porch with elegant columns that support round arches, creating a series of covered corridors that frame an open central space. The columns, made of white stone, contrast gently with the red bricks of the walls, creating a visual effect of great refinement.
Each side of the cloister is meticulously designed to maintain an aesthetic balance and the arches create a sense of rhythm and continuity that guides the visitor’s gaze. The decorations are sober but elegant, with details that reveal the craftsmanship of the time.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Santa Maria delle Grazie is not only a monument of historical and artistic importance, but also a must-see for those who want to fully understand the cultural heritage of Milan. Its fascinating architecture and the richness of artistic details offer visitors an unforgettable experience, To which is added the emotion of being in front of one of the most important works of art in the world: the Cenacle of Leonardo.
Leonardo da Vinci and the Cenacle
The Last Supper (or “Cenacolo”) by Leonardo da Vinci, painted between 1495 and 1498, is located in the refectory of the convent adjacent to the basilica.
The work is undoubtedly one of the most famous and studied in the world and -as known- represents the moment when Jesus announces that one of his disciples will betray him.
Leonardo’s genius is manifested in the dramatic and innovative disposition of the characters, which captures the individual emotions and reactions of the twelve apostles. The use of chiaroscuro, perspective and attention to detail, such as the reflections of tools on the table, make the fresco extraordinarily realistic and dynamic.
In this case, Leonardo decided to experiment with a mixed technique on dry instead of dedicating himself to the traditional fresco, a choice that unfortunately contributed to the rapid deterioration of the painting.
Foto : Cenacolo Vinciano
A battle against time: the continuous restoration of the work
The Last Supper has undergone numerous restoration works over the centuries, due to the fragility of the technique used and the damage caused by humidity and wars.
One of the most dangerous moments for the integrity of the painting was during World War II, when a bomb destroyed much of the refectory, But miraculously leaving the work of Leonardo whole.
The most significant and controversial restoration was completed in 1999 and lasted twenty years. The layers of paint and stucco added in previous restorations were removed on this occasion, and this process revealed original details and colors closer to Leonardo’s intent, although some parts of the fresco have been irretrievably lost.
The challenge continues today with the use of advanced technologies to monitor and preserve the work for future generations.
The Last Supper in popular culture: a universal symbol
The Last Supper is not only an artistic masterpiece, but a cultural icon that has profoundly influenced our vision of the Renaissance and of the Christian religion.
The arrangement of the characters and the symbolism of the painting have been the subject of countless studies, interpretations and reproductions. It has been mentioned in films, literature and even advertising, demonstrating its pervasive influence on popular culture.
One famous example is the book “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown, which has sparked a renewed global interest in the work and its historical context.
Leonardo’s incredible ability to merge art and storytelling continues to amaze and inspire, making the Last Supper a reference point for artists, Historians and enthusiasts from around the world.
Copertina: Cenacolo Vinciano