Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four papal basilicas in Rome and one of the most important and majestic churches in the city. Located on the top of the Esquiline Hill, this basilica is a masterpiece of early Christian and Baroque architecture, with a history dating back to the 5th century. The facade of the basilica, designed by Ferdinando Fuga in the 18th century, is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, with its Corinthian columns and statues of saints adorning the niches. The interior is characterized by a wide and bright central nave, flanked by two side aisles and decorated with frescoes, mosaics, and priceless works of art. Of particular interest is the mosaic in the apse, created in the 13th century by Jacopo Torriti, depicting the Coronation of the Virgin. This mosaic, with its vibrant colors and extraordinary detailed precision, is considered one of the masterpieces of medieval art. An interesting anecdote concerns the foundation of the basilica, which according to legend was inspired by a dream of Pope Liberius. It is said that the Virgin Mary appeared to the pope in a dream and indicated the place to build the church, marking the site with a miraculous snowfall in the middle of summer. This event is commemorated every year on August 5th with a suggestive celebration, during which white rose petals are dropped from the ceiling of the basilica to remember the miraculous snowfall. The basilica is also famous for the Sistine Chapel, built in the 16th century according to the design of Domenico Fontana, and for the Pauline Chapel, designed by Flaminio Ponzio in the 17th century. These chapels, richly decorated with precious marbles, frescoes, and statues, are extraordinary examples of Renaissance and Baroque art.