Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore)

The Basics

Expanded and reworked over the centuries, the original nucleus of theBasilica of Santa Maria Maggiore dates from the mid-fifth century. Tour inside to see fifth-century mosaics depicting Old Testament scenes, a reliquary said to contain a piece of baby Jesus' crib, an ancient icon of the Virgin Mary, and the tombs of Saint Jerome and artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Don't miss the Sistine Chapel in Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, named for Pope Sixtus V.

The basilica's location near Rome’s main Termini train station makes it easy to pair a visit with other top sights in Rome by joining a scooter, Segway, e-bike, or hop-on-hop-off bus tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

• You must wear modest attire covering your knees and shoulders to enter the church.

• Photography without flash is allowed inside the church.

• The basilica is not accessible to wheelchairs and strollers due to a flight of stairs at the entrance.

• A visit to theBasilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is a must for those interested in early Christian art and architecture.

How to Get There

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is located on the square of the same name; it's an easy walk from the Termini train station, which is also a bus and metro hub.

When to Get There

If you want to visit Rome without the crowds, come October through April, although prepare for chilly weather. Visit in May or September for warmer weather without the crowds that flock June through August.

Snow … in August?

According to legend, plans for the church—also known as Madonna della Neve (Our Lady of the Snow)—were drawn by Pope Liberius in the snow that miraculously fell on this hilltop on Aug. 5 in the fourth century. Every year on that date, the miracle of the snow is commemorated with a cascade of white petals falling from the ceiling onto the altar, one of the most evocative religious events in Rome.

Ways to explore

There’s no need to plan ahead for visits to the main basilica, which is free. Other areas require tickets, which can be booked online or in person, including the art-filled Liberian Historical Museum, the Hall of Popes, the loggia, and Bernini’s Staircase, as well as an archaeological site with a Marian shrine dating back to the Roman Empire. In high season, access beyond the basilica may be limited, so plan ahead or book a tour. The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is a popular stop on itineraries that combine the basilica with other major Catholic sites in the city.

Accessibility

The main area of the basilica is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Coins to purchase candles, camera with zoom

What to wear

Visitors should dress modestly, with clothing that covers knees and shoulders.

Not allowed

Food/drink, music, smoking

Amenities

Restrooms, audio guides

Address

The basilica is located on Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore, in the heart of Rome’s Esquilino neighborhood. It sits atop the highest of Rome’s famed seven hills and is within walking distance of sites including the Trophies of Marius and the Acquario Romano.

Driving

Although you can drive to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the neighborhood’s busy streets and limited parking make it impractical. It’s far better to join a tour, come via taxi, or use public transit.

Public transportation

The basilica is a 5-minute walk from Roma Termini. That’s Rome’s largest train station, which is also where all three of the city’s metro lines intersect, making it easy to get here from most major tourist hubs.

Best times to visit

Come in the morning or late afternoon to catch the best light through the basilica’s soaring windows.

Best days to visit

The basilica is open daily, with religious services held every day except Saturday. With bigger crowds and multiple services, Sundays are spectacular but busy.

Best months to visit

If you want to visit Rome without the crowds, come October through April, but prepare for chilly weather. Visit in May or September for warmer weather without the crowds that typically flock to the area from June through August.

Special events

Come the night of August 5 to join Romans celebrating the miraculous fifth-century snowfall atop Esquiline Hill. The festivities take place outside the church, and traditionally include music by the carabinieri (police) band.