Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

"The Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, also known as the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, is one of the four major basilicas in Rome, Italy. It is located on the Esquiline Hill and is considered to be one of the most important and beautiful churches in the city. The basilica was originally built in the 5th century, during the pontificate of Pope Sixtus III, and has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries. Its present-day appearance is the result of a major renovation carried out in the 18th century. The interior of the basilica is particularly impressive, with its soaring nave and numerous chapels and works of art. Some of the highlights include the ornate gilded ceiling, the 5th-century mosaics in the apse depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary, and the tomb of Pope Sixtus V, which is located in the Sistine Chapel. One of the most interesting features of the basilica is its famous relic, the Holy Crib, which is said to contain pieces of the manger in which the baby Jesus was laid. The Holy Crib is kept in a chapel located beneath the main altar, and is only displayed to the public on certain occasions, such as during the Christmas season."

"An entire book could be written about this beautiful church, which is full of Church history. Some highlights: You can descend steps to go under the main altar, and you'll find behind glass, encased in a gold reliquary, slats of wood: relics of the manger of Jesus. In the chapel on the left transcept of the basilica is the ancient icon of Salus Populi Romani, attributed to St. Luke the Evangelist. This icon is beloved by the Romans because of Our Lady's watchful care over the city. Pope St. Gregory the Great carried this icon in procession during a plague in 593. During this procession, he had a vision of St. Michael the Archangel sheathing his sword atop Hadrian's Mausoleum - now called Castel Sant'Angelo, just down from the Vatican. Pope Francis visits this icon every time he takes a papal trip. "

"A major papal basilica as well as one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome, and the largest Catholic Marian church in Rome. Built back in the 5th century, the basilica was restored, redecorated and extended by various popes all the way through to the 18th century. Here you’ll be able to view incredible mosaics, frescos, sculptures and the two mesmerising chapels. "