From the outstide, the Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angeli looks very unassuming, but inside is one of the most famous Renaissance frescoes in Switzerland, "Passion and Crucifixion" by Bernardino Luini. Among others are Luini's own take on "The Last Supper." The artist was a student of Lenoardo daVinci and is said to have worked with him directly. Another interesting fact is that the painter often paints himself (at various stages of his life) into his work depending on the subject. They are building a large cultural complex (I believe) right next to the church that seems out of context (and makes me a little sad), but stepping inside is like stepping into another world.
Very insignificant church from the outside but the 16th century fresco inside is completely mindblowing- painted by a disciple of Leonardo Da Vinci- its colour and detail is incredible.
This lakefront church, surprisingly nestled between modern buildings & shops is covered within by beautiful frescoes by two masters, one of whom was a protege of Da Vinci. There is a semblance of the Last Supper on the far wall.
the frescos in this old,old church are wonderful, quite a surprise in this little hidden gem. Higghly recommended.
This OLD church is nestled in with much newer more modern buildings surrounding it. It appears very plain and almost uninviting on its exterior, but you MUST go in! The church, which was originally part of a Franciscan monastery, is home to Switzerland's most famous Renaissance fresco. It covers the whole wall of the nave. It is called the "Passion and and Crucifixion of Christ" and the artists name is Luini. Although it appears to be one very large painting, it is actually several scenes combined together creating the idea of one huge painting. The church is located on Piazza Bernardino Luini, at the end of Via Nassa.
Worth a look into this church to see the vibrant 16th century frescoes of biblical scenes. Lovely walk to reach church.
Wedged between some modern buildings, facing Lake Lugano, this church is a pretty little gem.Whilst its facade and exterior are unpretentious, inside the Church one finds several beautiful frescoes including two by Bernadino Luini who was a pupil of Da Vinci. The large fresco which covers the entire wall of the nave is considered to be Switzerland's most famous Renaissance fresco.This is a highly recommended sight in Lugano.
Looking out of place because of its utterly simplistic architecture, the Church of St. Mary of the Angels (Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angioli) along the shore of Lake Lugano is one of the most interesting, but overlooked, sites in the picturesque town. While nearby Via Nassa is brimming with shoppers, luxury labels, outdoor restaurants and colorful vegetable stalls, the little church is plain on the outside, but magnificent on the inside. Renaissance artist Bernadino Luini’s masterpieces grace the walls. His version of the Last Supper is reminiscent, yet very dissimilar from his contemporary Leonardo DaVinci’s version in Milan. One of the most striking differences is the position of the figure to the right of the Christ figure; those familiar with Dan Brown’s The DaVinci Code, will definitely consider the significance of Luini’s arrangement. To see my pictures of Lake Lugano and the church frescos, go to my website: http://savvysightseer.wix.com/savvy#!lake-lugano/c1m03. Without a doubt, a stop in the church should be a part of any visit to Lugano!
Sadly, during my recent visit, July 5-07, the church was closed and under renovation. Fences and like covered the front and main side. Peeking through the fences (as they weren't working on the weekend) I couldn't tell whether they were trying to save or destroy the lovely paintings on the courtyard walls and archways. New up-market stores are being installed, and the church will now abut a huge, sleek, marble and glass art museum. I believe the museum will be wonderful, but it's a shame to see two such different structures so close!
This is a really lovely church and the paintings are beautiful ... just a short walk from the town center.