Why was Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' closed to the public in Milan?

Access to 'The Last Supper' was restricted for 3 1/2 days to accommodate VIP visitors, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance and foreign delegations, during the Winter Olympics.

Who had VIP access to 'The Last Supper' during the closure?

VIP visitors included U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his family, as well as foreign delegations from China, Poland, Hungary, and Bulgaria.

What impact did the closure of 'The Last Supper' have on Milan?

The closure caused disappointment among tourists who could not see the masterpiece and led to traffic diversions and public transportation disruptions in the area.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Vance Access Blocks Last Supper for Tourists

Vance Access Blocks Last Supper for Tourists

7 Feb

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Summary

Last Supper access was closed for 3 1/2 days.
Vice President Vance and foreign delegations gained VIP access.
Disappointed tourists missed seeing the masterpiece.
The closure affected public transportation and local traffic.

Vance Access Blocks Last Supper for Tourists

During the Winter Olympics in Milan, access to Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" was unexpectedly closed to the public for 3 1/2 days. The renowned masterpiece, located in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, is a significant attraction for art lovers and religious visitors. Tourists, like those from Spain who traveled for the weekend, expressed frustration upon finding the site blocked.

While the public was barred, multiple VIP groups, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his family, were granted access on Saturday, February 5. Foreign delegations from China, Poland, Hungary, and Bulgaria also visited the artwork and the Brera Art Gallery, with the director emphasizing the role in international relations. This preferential access caused considerable disappointment among regular visitors.

The closures also led to traffic diversions and disruptions in public transportation, affecting local residents. "The Last Supper," created between 1494 and 1498, is preserved under strict conservation conditions due to its delicate dry-paint technique, which makes it vulnerable to deterioration. Recent historical damage includes incidents during World War II bombing raids.