Cenacolo Vinciano, Milan. Leonardo, when it came to wall painting, did not rely on the traditional yet durable fresco technique, which requires a quick application of color on wet plaster, but wanted to experiment with an innovative method that allowed him to work on dry plaster and, therefore, to return repeatedly to the work, taking care of every little detail.
Unfortunately, Leonardo’s insights proved wrong and soon, due to an unfortunate combination of causes, the painting began to deteriorate.
Over the centuries, many restorations followed in a desperate attempt to save the masterpiece. In 1999, after more than twenty years of work, the latest conservation intervention was completed which, thanks to the removal of many repaintings, brought to light what remained of the original layers.
Visitor Information
Reservation fees do not apply for school groups, for which a flat rate of 5.00 euros per group is adopted. Booking for entry is mandatory. Entry to the museum on the first Sunday of the month is free, but booking is still mandatory. To book or purchase: tel. +39 0292800360. Visiting sessions last 15 minutes for a maximum allowed number of 30 people at a time.
Information about Cenacolo Vinciano: Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2 – Milan
