Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica (St. Mary Major Basilica), located on Esquiline Hill, is one of the four major papal basilicas in Rome.
This magnificent structure is not only a place of worship but also an artistic and architectural treasure, steeped in over 1,500 years of history, faith, and devotion. Known for its legendary association with the miraculous snowfall in August, the basilica is often referred to as Our Lady of the Snows.
Inside, you’ll find stunning mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures that span centuries of artistic expression, making the basilica a must-visit for pilgrims and art lovers alike.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the essential details for your visit, including tickets, how to get there, opening hours, and an in-depth look at the history and artistic highlights of this remarkable basilica.
Tickets to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
Entrance to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is free. However, there are fees for certain areas, such as the Liberian Historical Museum, the Archaeological Area, and for guided tours.
Below are some top-rated tour options:
Suggestion: Tours offer access to areas like the archaeological sites and historical museum, providing you with expert insights into the basilica's rich history and artistic significance.
Do I Need a Guided Tour for Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica?
While independent exploration is possible, a guided tour is highly recommended to truly appreciate the basilica's history and artistic significance. Guided tours provide:
- In-depth commentary on the basilica’s history and architecture.
- Behind-the-scenes access to areas like the Liberian Historical Museum and Archaeological Area.
- Exclusive insights into the artistic treasures that adorn the basilica’s walls and ceilings.
Things to Do in Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
There are many remarkable sights to explore inside and around Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica. Here are some must-see highlights:
- Paleochristian Mosaics: Dating back to the 5th century, these mosaics depict biblical scenes and are some of the oldest examples of Christian art in Rome.
- Medieval Mosaics: The apse mosaics, created under the direction of Jacopo Torriti in the 13th century, depict key scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.
- The Holy Crib: A relic believed to be part of Jesus' manger, housed in a crib-shaped reliquary designed by Giuseppe Valadier.
- Salus Populi Romani: An iconic Marian image, attributed to Saint Luke, this painting holds great spiritual significance for Romans.
- Sistine Chapel: Separate from the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, this chapel was built between 1585 and 1587 and features grand Baroque designs.
- Pauline Chapel: Built by Pope Paul V, this chapel is adorned with precious marble and houses the famous Salus Populi Romani icon.
- Bell Tower: Climb to the top of the tallest bell tower in Rome (246 feet) for panoramic views of the city.
- Sforza Chapel: Designed by Michelangelo and completed after his death, this chapel features elegant Renaissance architecture.
- Bernini Family Tomb: The resting place of the famous artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his father, Pietro Bernini.
Where Is Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Located?
The basilica is located on Esquiline Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome, close to the Roma Termini central station, making it easily accessible.
- Address: Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma
- Google Maps: Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Location
How to Get There
Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is well-connected by public transport and within walking distance of other major attractions:
- Metro: Take Line A or Line B to Termini station. From there, it's a 5-minute walk to the basilica.
- Bus: Several bus lines stop near the basilica:
- Bus 16, 70, 71, 75, 117, 360, 590, 649, 714: S. Maria Maggiore stop
- Bus 105: Farini stop, 2 minutes on foot
- Tram: Lines 5 and 14 stop at Farini and Napoleone III.
For those preferring to walk, the basilica is about 20 minutes from iconic landmarks such as the Roman Forum and Colosseum.
You can find official Public Transport Maps via this link.
Opening Hours of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
The basilica is open daily, making it easy to fit into any Rome itinerary:
- Basilica: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm (Last admission at 6:30 pm)
- Liberian Historical Museum and Archaeological Area: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm
Note: During periods of high visitor volume, closures may occur 30 minutes earlier than scheduled, depending on queue length.
History of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
According to legend, Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica was built on the site of a miraculous snowfall in the middle of August, which prompted Pope Liberius to mark the location for the basilica's construction. T
his event is commemorated every year on August 5, when white petals are dropped from the basilica’s ceiling.
Constructed during the pontificate of Pope Sixtus III in 432 AD, the basilica was built to honor the Virgin Mary following the Council of Ephesus.
Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous renovations and has been a key site for papal ceremonies.
Good to Know
Legend has it that the basilica was built after a wealthy Roman couple and Pope Liberius both had visions of the Virgin Mary, who revealed that a miraculous snowfall would indicate where to build a church in her honor. This led to the dedication of Santa Maria Maggiore as Our Lady of the Snows.
Six Popes Are Buried Here
The basilica serves as the final resting place for six popes:
- Pope Honorius III (1150-1227)
- Pope Nicholas IV (1227-1292)
- Pope St. Pius V (1504-1572)
- Pope Sixtus V (1521-1590)
- Pope Clement VIII (1536-1605)
- Pope Clement IX (1600-1669)
Additionally, Pope Francis has expressed his wish to be buried here.
Accessibility & Facilities and Services at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
The basilica provides several facilities for visitors:
- Reception Desk: Located under the portico, offering tickets, audio guides, and books.
- Audio Guides: Available in five languages.
- Restrooms: Convenient facilities are available for visitors.
- Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is generally accessible to visitors with wheelchairs and strollers. Ramps and designated entrances are available for ease of entry, though some areas of the basilica may be more difficult to access due to its historical nature.
Visiting Rules for Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
Before visiting, consider these guidelines:
- Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered to respect the sacred nature of the basilica.
- Silence: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
- Photography: Non-flash photography is allowed, but some areas may have restrictions.
Traveler Tips for Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
To enhance your visit, keep these traveler tips in mind:
- Beat the Crowds: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak times.
- Bring Water: Stay hydrated, especially in the summer months.
- Explore Nearby Landmarks: The basilica is close to major attractions like the Roman Forum, Colosseum, and Trevi Fountain.
Top Attractions Nearby Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
Here are some top attractions within walking distance of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica:
Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica stands as a testament to faith, art, and history. Its magnificent mosaics, chapels, and artistic treasures draw pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a space for spiritual reflection and cultural immersion.
Whether you visit for its religious significance or to admire its artistic beauty, the basilica provides a memorable journey through Rome's rich history.