Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is the largest church in Rome. It is one of the 5 ancient Catholic Papal Basilicas in the city. It is believed to have been constructed in the year 352AD on the site where a vision of the Virgin Mary appeared simultaneously in a dream to both the wife of the Pope and a local patrician. The earliest written record of the church dates from the 13th century. Nothing remains of the original building, which has been modified many times over the centuries although the earliest parts of the present building date from the era of Pope Sixtus 111, between 432AD and 440AD. There are many important works of art inside the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, some of which date from this period. These are amongst the earliest known Christian mosaics and show biblical scenes from the Old Testament. This attraction is open daily for visitors from 7am until 7pm, admission is free although there is a recommended donation of 4 Euros per person.
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the top attractions in Rome, known for its unique features that attract numerous visitors each year.
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