BASILICA OF SANTA MARIA MAGGIORE HISTORY CURIOSITIES AND CURRENT EVENTS

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the four papal basilicas in Rome, is an extraordinary place of worship both for its architectural beauty and for its historical and spiritual significance. Situated on the Esquiline Hill, this basilica is a true treasure trove of Christian art and history.

History of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore was built in the 4th century, during the pontificate of Pope Liberius. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared in a dream to Pope Liberius and a wealthy Roman patrician, telling them to build a church in her honor in the place where they would find snow. On August 5, 358, in the middle of summer, a miraculous snowfall fell on the Esquiline Hill, marking the spot where the basilica would be erected. This legend is commemorated every year with a special celebration and a cascade of white petals inside the basilica.

Over the centuries, the basilica has undergone numerous interventions and expansions, until it became the imposing building we see today. The bell tower, the tallest in Rome at 75 meters, was added in the Middle Ages, while the interior of the basilica preserves precious early Christian mosaics, dating back to the 5th century, which illustrate scenes from the Old Testament and the life of Christ.

Curiosities about the Basilica

1. The Holy Door : One of the most fascinating curiosities of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is the presence of the Holy Door, which is opened only during the Jubilee years. This door represents a symbol of the passage from the life of sin to the life of grace. During the Holy Year, pilgrims who pass through the Holy Door receive plenary indulgence, an act of mercy granted by the Catholic Church.
2. The Salus Populi Romani : Inside the basilica is the famous icon of the Madonna Salus Populi Romani, one of the most venerated images by the Romans. This icon, which according to tradition was painted by Saint Luke, was carried in procession during the epidemics and calamities that struck Rome over the centuries.
3. The Mosaics : The mosaics of the basilica are among the oldest and most precious in Rome. They depict biblical scenes and are an extraordinary example of early Christian mosaic art. The mosaics of the triumphal arch represent the birth of Christ and his childhood, while those of the central nave illustrate episodes from the Old Testament.

How to reach the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is easily reachable thanks to its central location in Rome.

• By Metro : The nearest metro stop is Termini (Line A and Line B). From Termini station, the basilica is about a 10-minute walk away.
• By Bus : Several bus lines have stops near the basilica, such as the 16, 70, 71, and 360.
• On Foot : If you are in the centre of Rome, the basilica is also within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions, such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.

How to Pass the Holy Door

Passing through the Holy Door during a Holy Year is a significant spiritual experience. Here's how:

1. Inquire : Check if there is a Holy Year in progress. The Holy Door is opened only during Jubilee years, the last of which was in 2015-2016 for the Jubilee of Mercy.
2. Prepare Yourself Spiritually : Before crossing the Holy Door, it is advisable to confess and receive the Eucharist, as the passage symbolizes an act of penance and reconciliation with God.
3. Crossing the Door : Entering the basilica through the Holy Door, reciting a personal prayer and meditating on the meaning of the gesture. Pilgrims may also participate in Mass or other liturgical celebrations inside the basilica.
4. Experience the Plenary Indulgence : The plenary indulgence can also be offered for the deceased, so many faithful choose to pass through the Holy Door to intercede for their loved ones.

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is not only a jewel of art and history, but also a place of profound spirituality and devotion, capable of offering pilgrims an unforgettable experience.