Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
Located in the heart of Rome, Santa Maria Maggiore, also known as the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and art lovers. As one of the four major Papal Basilicas and a revered pilgrimage site, this stunning basilica dates back to the 5th century and showcases a breathtaking fusion of art, mosaics, and ornate decorations that have evolved over centuries. Its architectural splendor is a testament to centuries of devotion and craftsmanship, making it a cornerstone of Rome’s religious and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, an art aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, Santa Maria Maggiore offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Rome.
Explore the stunning Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, a masterpiece showcasing a blend of architectural styles from early Christianity to Baroque. This historic basilica underwent significant renovations in the 18th century, enhancing its grandeur. Visitors can marvel at the medieval mosaics and marble floors in the bell tower, along with Ionic columns from ancient Roman structures. A highlight of Santa Maria Maggiore is the beautiful mosaics adorning the triumphal arch and nave, which date back to the early 5th century. These mosaics are a testament to the basilica’s importance in early church architecture. Plan your visit to Santa Maria Maggiore and step back in time to experience its rich history and breathtaking artistry.
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Information from history
HISTORY OF THE BASILICA
Step back in time to the year 867 at this remarkable church, where a significant event in religious history took place. Pope Hadrian II, alongside Saints Cyril and Methodius, blessed the Slavonic service books by placing them on the main altar. This act not only approved their use but also marked a pivotal moment in the spread of the Slavonic liturgy.
Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
The Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major has dominated over the city of Rome for 16 centuries as the Marian shrine par excellence and the cradle of artistic civilization. Located at the summit of the Esquiline Hill, it is one of Rome’s four Papal Basilicas. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary indicated and inspired the construction of her abode on the Esquiline Hill. She appeared in a dream to the aristocrat, Giovanni, and to Pope Liberius, asking for the construction of a Church in her honour, in a place that She would miraculously reveal. The Miracle of the Snows is recalled each year with a solemn celebration. During the liturgy, a shower of white petals falls from the ceiling, creating an almost perfect union between the congregation and the Mother of God.
The Basilica houses the most important Marian icon, the Salus Populi Romani. Tradition attributes the image to Saint Luke the Evangelist, the Patron Saint of painters. Pope Francis entrusts his Apostolic Journeys to the protection of the Salus Populi Romani, which he visits before every departure and after every return.
The relic of the Holy Crib, the manger in which Baby Jesus was laid to rest, highlights the importance of Saint Mary Major as the “Bethlehem of the West”. The first Christmas night Mass was celebrated here and Pontiffs have been keeping this tradition alive for centuries.
Among the Basilica’s most important relics are the remains of Saint Matthew and Saint Jerome.
Seven Popes are buried in the Basilica.
The many treasures housed in the Basilica make Saint Mary Major a place where art and spirituality blend in a perfect pairing, giving visitors the unique emotions that transpire from man’s great works of art, inspired by God.
Constantine (Cyril), together with his brother Methodius, went to Rome to defend the Old Slavonic language as the language of worship before the Pope. Their mission was successful, and the Pope granted their request in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. In this church in 867, Pope Hadrian II, in the presence of Saints Cyril and Methodius, placed the Slavonic service books on the main altar, thus approving them and allowing their use. After the consecration, the new priests celebrated the Slavonic liturgy in several Roman churches.
Where to get tourist information?
Contacts
Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore
Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore 30, 00185 Rome - Municipio I, Italy
tel. +39 06 698 86800
e-mail: accoglienza.smm@basilica.va
web: www.basilicasantamariamaggiore.va
Moravian Slovakia Museum
Smetanovy sady 179, 686 01 Uherské Hradiště
tel. +420 572 556 556
e-mail: info@slovackemuzeum.cz
web: www.slovackemuzeum.cz
Velehrad Tourist Centre
Salašská 328, 687 06 Velehrad
tel. 723 984 080
e-mail: ticvelehrad@email.cz
web: www.velehrad.cz
How to get to basilica?
To get to Santa Maria Maggiore using public transportation, you can take metro line A and get off at Termini or Repubblica or metro line B to Termini station.
Once you arrive at Termini, exit from Via Marsala, located on the left side of the station, when facing the metro tracks. From there, you walk straight for about 200 meters, and you should have reached the basilica. You can also take the train from the city’s outskirts.
Alternatively, you can take the bus to Piazza dell’Esquilino, just a few steps away from the basilica.
Several bus lines stop at this square, including the 16, 75, and 714.
If you prefer, you can also walk there on the way to or back from another destination. The basilica is about 15 to 20 minutes from the Trevi fountain, piazza Venezia or the Colosseum.