History

An in-depth Overview of the History of Santa Maria delle Grazie

In 1459, the establishment of a second group of Dominican monks in Milan marked a significant development, complementing the existing Sant’Eustorgio settlement dating back to 1227. Count Gaspare Vimercati, a prominent figure from the Sforza family, generously donated land to the Dominican community a year later for the construction of a monastery and church.

Construction and Consecration

The property already housed a small chapel dedicated to Santa Maria delle Grazie. The foundational stone for the monastery complex was laid on September 10, 1463, under the direction of Guiniforte Solari, Milan’s prominent architect at the time. Completion of the monastery was achieved in 1469, while the construction of the church, initiated simultaneously, concluded later, with its consecration in 1482.

Renaissance Influences and Transformations

In 1492, Ludovico il Moro, the new lord of Milan, inspired by the prevailing styles in Florence, Ferrara, Mantua, Urbino, and Venice, decided to erect a monument that would showcase this contemporary aesthetic.

Just a decade after Solari’s church was completed, the newly built choir with two side chapels was dismantled. On March 29, 1492, Archbishop Guidantonio Arcimboldi blessed the foundation stone for the new tribune, signaling a transformative chapter in the church’s architectural history.

Contribution of Bramante and Leonardo da Vinci

Donato Bramante, Italian painter, builder and founder of High Renaissance architecture, was commissioned to contribute to the church’s architectural and artistic significance by working on the convent’s sacristy, known as the Cappella della Passione. Significant progress was made between 1497 and 1498, with the completion of the apse and the high altar.

In the same period, from 1495 to 1498, Leonardo da Vinci received a commission to paint “The Last Supper” on the refectory’s north wall. This masterpiece was completed between 1497 and 1499, becoming one of the world’s most celebrated works of art.

Historical Turmoil and Restoration

The year 1500 marked a tumultuous period when the French invaded Milan, occupying the convent and damaging “The Last Supper.” By 1512, the French were expelled from Milan, and the church underwent restoration. Over the 16th and 17th centuries, modifications and additions were made, reflecting evolving architectural styles.

In the 18th century, the church underwent renovations, with changes made to the interior. The 19th century saw the Napoleonic occupation, leading to the suppression of religious orders and affecting Santa Maria delle Grazie. The French seized “The Last Supper,” and in 1800, the painting was returned to Milan.

Preservation and Recognition

Entering the 20th century, the church faced damage during World War II bombings. Remarkably, Leonardo’s painting on the north wall of the refectory survived as the bombs only caused the collapse of the south wall. Restoration efforts commenced to preserve its historical and artistic significance.

In 1980, Santa Maria delle Grazie, along with “The Last Supper,” was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the church continues to attract visitors worldwide who come to admire its architectural beauty and, notably, Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Last Supper.” It remains a symbol of Milan’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.