Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie

Santa Maria delle Grazie in Mendrisio is a former Servite church at the northern edge of the old town, in the Swiss canton of Ticino. Together with its convent buildings it ranks among Mendrisio's key heritage sites, and today it stands beside the town's art museum.

What is the history of the church?

The church probably dates to the first half of the 15th century and is documented from 1463. The Servites, the Order of the Servants of Mary founded in Florence in 1233, reached Mendrisio in 1451. They first used San Sisinio alla Torre, then in 1477 settled in the oratory of Santa Maria delle Grazie. There they ran a hospital and cared for the sick; the hospital later became a school. A choir was added in the late 16th century.

In 1852 the cantonal government banned religious orders, and the Servites left after roughly 375 years in town.

What does it look like today?

A major rebuilding in 1895 gave the 15th-century structure a new facade, taller walls and fresh vaulting, while the porch and bell tower were rebuilt in Gothic Revival style. Even so, the interior preserves a notable cycle of paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries. The best-preserved fresco, in the north chapel, shows the Coronation of the Virgin.

The complex also includes the church of San Giovanni and the oratory of the Madonna delle Grazie, whose lunette is attributed to Giovanni da Milano.

What else is nearby?

Since 1982 the former convent has housed the Museo d'arte Mendrisio, with both historic and modern works. Pair a visit with a stroll through the old town, known for its Easter processions and handsome palazzi.

How do you get there?

Mendrisio lies in southern Ticino, close to the Italian border. Trains connect it with Lugano, Como and Milan. The church sits in the north of the centre, a short walk from the station and main square.

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same church as Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan?

No. The Milan church is a Dominican site famous for Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper. The one described here is in Switzerland and has its own, separate history.

Who was behind the church in Mendrisio?

It is tied to the Servites, who settled here in 1477. It is documented from 1463, and its present look owes much to the 1895 rebuilding.

What survives of the original decoration?

The interior holds a 15th and 16th-century painting cycle. The finest fresco, the Coronation of the Virgin, is in the north chapel.

Can I visit the museum in the former convent?

Yes. The Museo d'arte Mendrisio has occupied the convent buildings since 1982. Check opening hours on the museum's website before you go.