Sant'Apollonia

Sant'Apollonia is a museum housed in a former Benedictine monastery in Florence, dedicated to 15th-century art. The main work is a large mural depicting the Last Supper that fills the refectory wall and features geometric patterns and precise perspective lines.

The monastery was founded in 1339 and grew into the largest women's religious complex in Florence. After the suppression of monasteries, it was converted into a museum to preserve its artistic treasures for the public.

The name Sant'Apollonia honors Saint Apollonia, patron saint of dentists, reflecting the religious dedication of the place. The spaces still show how the Benedictine nuns gathered here and used the refectory as their communal dining hall.

The museum is open Monday through Friday and select Saturdays from 8:15 to 13:50, with free admission for all visitors. Plan your visit in the morning to have time to view the artworks in the quiet atmosphere of the refectory.

Restoration work in 1953 uncovered preparatory drawings called sinopias hidden beneath the surface frescoes. These drawings are now displayed opposite the finished works, revealing how the artist planned his composition.

Location: Florence

Inception: 1445

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Phone: +390552388607

Email: pm-tos@beniculturali.it

Website: http://polomusealetoscana.beniculturali.it/index.php?it/179/firenze-cenacolo-di-santapollonia

GPS coordinates: 43.77871,11.25660

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:22