Last Supper Museum

Arizona Travel Guide visits The Last Supper Museum in Douglas, Arizona, a unique collection of artworks inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper.

We were in two minds about visiting The Last Supper Museum, which is kitty-corner from the Gadsden Hotel, where we were staying. It sounded the most unlikely topic for a museum. Would we be pounced upon by religious zealots and be unable to escape?

Douglas Last Supper Museum Marquetry by a life sentence prisoner in the Philippines — Marquetry by a Life Sentence Prisoner in the Philippines

Oh well, the door was open, we were standing outside, so we decided to peek in. Wow! We were in there for at least an hour and loved the wide-ranging collection of paintings inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s painting of The Last Supper.

What’s In The Last Supper Museum?

Douglas Last Supper Museum painting from Guatemala — The Last Supper from Guatemala

There are several hundred items on display, with a few hundred more in storage awaiting the museum’s expansion. The knowledgeable guide also added to the fun of the visit, with stories to tell about every item on display. It was fascinating to see Last Suppers from different countries, which used local styles and materials, with some examples being from Guatemala, Kenya, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

Douglas Last Supper Museum Lego Last Supper — A Lego Last Supper

There were several examples from Arizona, naturally, and these included a depiction of a Native American Last Supper, and also a beautiful one comprised of kachina dolls. Others were funny, with Last Suppers made up of cats, shoes, cutlery, Lego, banned books, and even one made out of cigarettes, as a stark reminder of what could be the cause of your own Last Supper.

The Significance of the Last Supper

Douglas Last Supper Museum, The Last Supper in Vietnamese Lacquer Ware — The Last Supper in Vietnamese Lacquer Ware

The Last Supper is a central event in the Christian faith, commemorated by Christians worldwide during the observance of Holy Week and particularly on Maundy Thursday. It is during this meal that Jesus instituted the sacrament of the Eucharist, sharing bread and wine with his disciples as symbols of his body and blood. The event is also significant because it marks the moment when Jesus predicted his betrayal by Judas Iscariot and foretold Peter’s denial.

Douglas Last Supper Museum The Last Supper in Shoes — The Last Supper in Shoes

The Last Supper has been a popular subject in Christian art for centuries, with countless artists interpreting the scene in their own unique styles. The museum in Douglas pays homage to this rich artistic tradition, showcasing a variety of interpretations that highlight the cultural and historical diversity of the Last Supper’s depiction.

Douglas Last Supper Museum The Last Supper in Banned Books — A Last Supper of Banned Books

One of the highlights of the museum is a life-sized replica of Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Last Supper mural. This iconic work, originally painted in the late 15th century, is one of the most recognizable depictions of the scene. The replica allows visitors to experience the grandeur and detail of da Vinci’s masterpiece up close. You have to go out onto 11^th Street to see the mural which is displayed through the windows of the upper floor.

Special Events and Programs

Douglas Last Supper Museum Rubber Duck Last Supper — Rubber Duck Last Supper

The museum hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours. These events often feature guest speakers, such as theologians, historians, and artists, who provide deeper insights into the Last Supper and its representation in art. The museum also offers educational programs for schools and church groups, making it a valuable resource for community engagement and spiritual education.

Visiting the Last Supper Museum

Douglas Last Supper Museum Peanuts Snoopy Last Supper — The Peanuts Last Supper

The Last Supper Museum is located in Douglas, Arizona, and is easily accessible for visitors. The museum is typically open to the public during regular business hours, but it’s a good idea to check ahead on the website below for any special events or changes in schedule.

Douglas Last Supper Museum Last Supper on a Gourd — Last Supper on a Gourd

Admission

Admission to the museum is free but a donation towards the upkeep is appreciated.

Conclusion

Douglas Last Supper Museum on a Malaysian Leaf — Malaysian Leaf Art

If you’re in Douglas then don’t miss The Last Supper Museum. It’s a unique place, and there’s only one other such museum in the USA.

Douglas Last Supper Museum Last Supper in a Bottle — Last Supper in a Bottle

Douglas Last Supper Museum Kenyan Last Supper — Kenyan Last Supper

More Information on The Last Supper Museum

Visit the official Last Supper Museum website.

All photos (c) Arizona Travel Guide.

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