Building with statue.

Da Vinci’s Milan: Politics, Secrets & Magic

Understand Leonardo da Vinci through the intrigue and power of Renaissance Milan, where his genius flourished under the patronage of the Sforza court. Guided by a private expert, trace his life, passions and philosophical fascinations, uncovering hidden symbolism and political tension woven into his work. The journey culminates in a private viewing of The Last Supper, experienced in complete solitude.

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The Last Supper.
Day 1
Alone with 'The Last Supper'
  • Meet your expert guide at Mandarin Oriental, Milan and walk to the Castello Sforzesco, the former palace fortress of the Sforza Dukes.
  • Explore the Trivulziana Library and ducal apartments, uncovering the relationship between power, astrology and spectacle at the Sforza court.
  • Continue to the UNESCO‑listed Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie, shaped by Ludovico Sforza’s fascination with art, science and the occult.
  • Enjoy a once‑in‑a‑lifetime private viewing of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, experienced in total privacy and without the crowds.
  • Return to the hotel, with optional arrangements for an esoteric or tarot session, followed by dinner at the two‑Michelin‑starred Seta restaurant.
Cathedral arches.
Day 2
Leonardo's Secrets
  • Following breakfast, join the expert at the Biblioteca Ambrosiana for a closer examination of Leonardo da Vinci’s connection to the ducal court and the degree to which he felt free to express his true self in Sforza Milan.
  • The library guards one of the most important collections of pages from Leonardo’s notebooks, the ‘Codex Atlanticus’, revealing his fascination with the natural world, as well as the place of the Earth in the Cosmos.
  • Take the afternoon at leisure, and return to Mandarin Oriental, Milan by transfer, or perhaps a leisurely stroll, taking in the sights, sounds and renowned Milanese boutiques.
  • Enjoy the evening at leisure. The Luminaire can make recommendations and reservations, from authentic trattorias favoured by locals, to vibrant cocktail bars.
The pool and spat Milan, Mandarin Oriental.
Day 3
Depart Mandarin Oriental, Milan
  • After a leisurely breakfast, and possibly a parting treatment at the expansive Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Milan, bid the city farewell.
Inclusions

 

  • 2 nights at Mandarin Oriental, Milan.
  • A private guide and expert who brings the stories of the Renaissance period to life with tales of intrigue, politics, and the occult.
  • Private viewing of Leonardo’s ‘Last Supper’ in the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
  • Exclusive access to the historic Trivulziana archives and library and privately guided visit of the ducal apartments at the Castelllo Sforzesco.
  • Guided visit of the Biblioteca Ambrosiana to see da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus.
When to Travel

 

  • Magnificent in all seasons.

 

Exclusions

 

  • Flights to/from Milan.
  • Excursions, meals and drinks other than those mentioned.
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Learn About The Luminaire

Learn About The Luminaire

Mandarin Oriental has partnered with luxury travel company The Luminaire to create transformational experiences for a growing number of our hotels around the world. Combining behind-the-scenes access with our world-renowned service, each journey sparks curiosity - offering fun, excitement, and a deeper understanding of the world.
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