Inspired by the original painting created at the end of the 15th century—widely regarded as one of the most influential works in Western art—this reinterpretation seeks to bring contemporary audiences closer to a central symbol of Christianity. The original, preserved in Milan, has been studied for centuries for its composition, perspective, and the emotional intensity captured at the moment when Jesus announces that one of his disciples will betray him.
The Zipaquirá installation goes beyond merely reproducing the image. It aims to create a fully immersive experience. The lighting design, the underground setting, and the arrangement of the elements invite visitors into a more intimate engagement with the scene, in dialogue with the cathedral’s monumental architecture. In this way, the exhibit becomes a meeting point between artistic heritage, cultural tourism, and religious devotion.
This initiative is part of the special programming for April, a key period for religious tourism in Colombia due to the celebration of Holy Week. During this season, visitor numbers increase significantly, positioning the cathedral as one of the country’s most frequented destinations. However, the exhibition has been designed to remain open beyond the liturgical calendar, allowing a broader audience to experience it.
A visit to the Salt Cathedral extends far beyond this installation. Guests can explore the Stations of the Cross carved in salt, the central nave, and various sculptural spaces that reinforce the site’s spiritual narrative. This architectural complex, regarded as one of Colombia’s most remarkable achievements in engineering and art, offers a multisensory experience where history, geology, and faith converge.
Within this context, the replica of *The Last Supper* integrates seamlessly into the existing route, enriching the cathedral’s cultural offerings. Its inclusion also reflects a broader strategy of thematic renewal aimed at maintaining public interest through temporary exhibitions. In previous years, the cathedral has incorporated symbolic elements linked to global religious celebrations, reinforcing its identity as a dynamic and evolving space.
Beyond its artistic value, the exhibition invites reflection on the enduring relevance of Renaissance masterpieces in contemporary contexts. By relocating a scene originally conceived for a European convent into a transformed salt mine turned temple in Latin America, a meaningful intercultural dialogue emerges. The work transcends its status as a historical reference to become a living, accessible experience, reinterpreted through new perspectives.
The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá thus reaffirms its role as a leading destination for religious tourism in the region. The fusion of art, spirituality, and natural surroundings makes each visit a unique journey, where time seems to pause amid tunnels of salt and profound silence. With this new installation, the cathedral not only expands its cultural scope but also invites visitors to rediscover—deep beneath the earth—one of the most iconic scenes in the history of universal art.
