Cyril and Methodius Route – Cultural Route of the Council of Europe

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
Rome

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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.

What can you visit here?

It was filmed about the basilica

Viaggio a Roma:
Santa Maria Maggiore

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Teaching resources: Santa Maria Maggiore

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Roman Station Church:
Santa Maria Maggiore

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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.

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.