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.
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- Picture of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Romesanta maria maggiore picture, gilded ceiling picture
- Picture of a stained glass window in Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiorebasilica picture, santa maria maggiore picture
- Picture of the interior of Santa Maria Maggiore Churchsanta maria maggiore picture
- Picture of Santa Maria Maggiore Church rome church pictures, santa maria maggiore
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