Built on a pagan temple dedicated to the goddess Cybele, the St Maria Maggiore Basilica was built in the IV century by order of Pope Liberius.

According to legend, the Virgin appeared to the Pope, giving him instructions to build the church, while the shape of the plan was designed by a miraculous snowfall.

The basilica displays various architectural styles, from early Christian to Baroque.

Only one of the major basilicas in Rome to preserve the original structures of its time, albeit enriched by later additions, it has some interior features that make it unique.

The entire building was restored and renovated during the XVIII century, so the facade and most of the interior date back to that period.

Despite this, the church preserves the bell tower, some mosaics and marble floors from the medieval period.

Some Ionic columns from other ancient Roman buildings, as well as splendid mosaics from the V century.

Touring St Maria Maggiore Basilica

The mosaics of the central nave and the triumphal arch dating back the V century, created during the pontificate of Sixtus III and those of the apse.

Execution of which was entrusted to the Franciscan friar Jacopo Torriti by order of Pope Nicholas IV.

Cosmatesque floor donated by the knights Scoto Paparone and son in 1288.

Coffered ceiling in gilded wood designed by Giuliano San Gallo.

XIII century Nativity scene by Arnolfo da Cambio.

Numerous chapels from the Borghese to the Sistine, from the Sforza to the Cesi chapel to the the Crucifix to the almost disappeared chapel of St Michele.

High Altar, the work of Ferdinando Fuga and later enriched by the genius of Valadier.

Finally, the Relic of the Holy Cradle and the Baptistery.

The guided tour of the of St Maria Maggiore Basilica and its Archaeological Area is a journey through the history.

Beauty and secrets of one of the most sumptuous and important churches in the capital.

As well as one of the four papal basilicas, together with St John in Lateran, St Peter Church and St Paul Outside The Walls.

Booking & Travel

St Maria Maggiore Basilica wheelchair accessible tours.

Unmissable visit at it with our Rome Accessible Tours.

Specifically tailored to wheelchair users, reduced mobility persons with an adapted transport.