SANTA MARIA DEGLI ANGIOLI

Discover a remarkable blend of modern art and history at Lugano's Santa Maria degli Angeli Chapel. It looks like a small Renaissance church from the exterior. As soon as you walk inside, the striking paintings by Enzo Cucchi and the modern chapel designed by Mario Botta will amaze you.

You can discover Bernardino Luini's elaborate frescoes, which include a striking "Passion and Crucifixion" and a special "Last Supper" on the side wall. These works of art possess vibrant and intricate details.

You can come to a classical concert held here from September to June to hear soloists, organ music, and choral performances in an exquisite setting. Once a part of a Franciscan monastery, the chapel has an interesting history that includes repair finds dating back to the 1920s. A cultural treasure, Santa Maria degli Angeli is a great place to see art or attend a performance.

Highlights

• Step into the Santa Maria degli Angeli Chapel, where Mario Botta’s striking modern design contrasts beautifully with Enzo Cucchi’s vibrant contemporary art.
• Gaze at Bernardino Luini’s “Passion and Crucifixion” frescoes, a powerful display of vivid colours and dramatic scenes that capture Christ’s suffering and Saint Sebastian’s martyrdom.
• Admire Luini’s “Last Supper” fresco, featuring intriguing details like Luini’s self-portrait as Judas and a strikingly feminine Apostle John.
• Enjoy a concert in this historic venue, with performances from September to June, including organ music and choral works, all set against stunning artwork.
• Explore the church’s rich history, from its 16th-century frescoes to its fascinating past as a Franciscan monastery and a hidden gem rediscovered in the 1920s.

How To Reach

• By Car: The church is approximately 0.6 km from the city centre of Lugano. It will take about 5 minutes via Via Sant'Antonio or Via Nassa, which are the main routes leading to the church.
• By Bus: You can take a bus to the “Lugano, Piazza Indipendenza” station. The church is about 0.7 km away from this bus stop. It will take you around 10 minutes to walk to Santa Maria degli Angioli from the bus station.
• By Train: Arrive at the “Lugano” train station. The church is approximately 1.5 km away from the train station. You can reach it in about 20 minutes on foot.
• By Foot: Walking from the city centre to Santa Maria degli Angioli is a very feasible option. The distance is approximately 0.6 km, and it should take you around 10 minutes to walk there.

Best Time To Visit

Santa Maria degli Angioli is open to visitors throughout the year.

• Best Day in the Week: For the best experience, visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds, which can be busy. 
• Best Time of the Day: Arriving early in the morning, as soon as the church opens, allows you to explore in peace before the influx of visitors.

Other Essential Information

Visitor's Tips:

• Pay respect for the religious site by keeping your distance from others and dressing modestly, covering your knees and shoulders.
• For walking tours that include the church, wear appropriate footwear and clothing according to the weather.
• Take a camera with a good zoom lens so you may take pictures of the interior artwork and intricate murals.
• Check schedules to make sure access is permitted and avoid visiting during Mass and musical performances.
• There is no ramp access for wheelchairs or strollers, so be prepared for a short climb at the entry.
• Walk from the historic center as the church is located on the southern lakefront, easily accessible on foot.