The Last Supper

Finishing my last class on a Friday afternoon, I made it to Lake Como in just over an hour. Meeting Dad, Charlie, and Deb for drinks on the sidewalk, we were treated to clear sunny skies. In just a few weeks since my last visit the crowds of Como had calmed, thankfully, and we enjoyed a beautiful sunset on the water.

In the morning, Dad, Charlie, and I took the funicular up to Brunate. Wandering the backstreets, we marveled at the physical condition required of the locals (particularly the older ones) to navigate these steep and cobblestoned streets.

From the Como Lago train station, we caught a direct shot into Milano Cadorna, a station located in the heart of the city.

Making our way around town, I will admit that I’m still learning to enjoy Milan. Though not nearly as pretty as Firenze and Roma, Milan’s grunge gives the city a little character. From fantastic art exhibitions to great music and stunning history, there is a lot to love.

I’m glad my dad suggested the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology as a stop on our tour of Milan. The museum was fascinating, featuring models of da Vinci’s designs in 3D form. His many advancements and inventions include the amphitheatre, the triple barrel cannon, and even a robot.

Another great idea of my dad’s doing was a guided tour of the refectory of the Convent of of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the home of da Vinci’s The Last Supper. It was my first time laying eyes on this famous Renaissance artwork and the experience was quite special.

As our guide pointing out, unlike viewing the Mona Lisa in the Louvre, we were actually standing where Leonardo himself stood as he created this great work. Over the course of a three year period, he grappled with linear perspective (a fluid concept at the time), unstable materials, and humid conditions. The resulting artwork is carefully guarded today to preserve his efforts, having been miraculously spared from a bomb that destroyed the refectory’s roof during WWII. The prepaid tickets were well worth the cost.

All too soon it was time to wish my folks and friends farewell. This autumn here in Ticino has been particularly beautiful, with blue sky days and vivid foliage. After a good rainstorm, it’s a treat to see the snow atop the surrounding peaks. As the good weather held out through October, I prepared for my next visitor…