Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

The Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, located in Rome, is one of the four major basilicas of the Catholic Church and holds immense religious significance. It is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and is believed to have been built following a miraculous snowfall in August, which inspired its construction in the 5th century. Pilgrims visit this sacred site to honor Mary, often referred to as Our Lady of the Snows, and to seek spiritual solace. The basilica houses revered relics, including a fragment of the Holy Crib of Jesus, making it a focal point for devotion and prayer. Its stunning architecture, adorned with mosaics and art, reflects centuries of faith and tradition. As a papal basilica, it is directly under the jurisdiction of the Pope, further emphasizing its importance in the Catholic world. Pilgrims from around the globe come to experience its spiritual atmosphere and to participate in its rich liturgical traditions. The site remains a testament to the enduring devotion to Mary and the Church’s heritage.