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The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, also known as the Basilica of St. Mary Major, is one of the four major basilicas in Rome, Italy. It is one of the oldest churches in Rome and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The basilica was built in the 5th century during the papacy of Pope Sixtus III.
The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is known for its beautiful architecture, including its ornate façade, marble columns, and intricate mosaics. The interior of the basilica is adorned with stunning Byzantine mosaics, intricate frescoes, and a gilded coffered ceiling. The basilica also houses a remarkable collection of medieval and Renaissance art.
One of the most famous features of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is the relics of the Nativity of Jesus, which are said to be housed in a reliquary beneath the main altar. Legend has it that the Virgin Mary appeared to Pope Liberius and a wealthy Roman couple in a dream, instructing them to build a church where snow would fall the following day. The church was built on the site where snow miraculously fell in August, giving rise to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.
Today, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is a popular pilgrimage site and a must-visit destination for tourists in Rome. It is a stunning example of Roman Catholic architecture and a testament to the power of faith and devotion.