Pictures of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, Italy

Go inside the major basilica of Rome: Saint Mary Major Basilica

The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore became a Palace of the Popes when it was determined that the the Lateran Palace was in no condition to accept the Popes returning from Avignon. The papal residence was later moved to the Palace of the Vatican in Vatican City.

The present building near Rome's Termini Station was built over the pagan temple of Cybele and dates from the time of Pope Sixtus III in the fifth century. The 16th century ceiling was fashioned from a design by Giuliano da Sangallo.

The Feast of the Assumption of Mary is celebrated each August 15 at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

Enjoy our pictures of the interior of Santa Maria Maggiore Church in Rome. Click each picture to see it full size.