Santa Maria Maggiore

The Latest

The statue of Our Lady, Queen of Peace in the Basilica of St. Mary Major.

7 popes are buried at St. Mary Major; Pope Francis will soon be the eighth

Apr 26, 2025

By Jonah McKeown

Pope Francis will be buried today at Santa Maria Maggiore — who are the other popes buried there? Read more

The Salus Populi Romani icon is displayed in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.

Who are the many popes not buried in the Vatican?

Apr 23, 2025

By Andrea Gagliarducci

Various factors are at play when it comes to the decision of a burial place for a pope. Pope Francis... Read more

Pope Francis kneels in prayer before the revered Marian icon “Salus Populi Romani” at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome on April 12, 2025.

Pope Francis makes prayerful visit to Marian basilica before Holy Week

Apr 12, 2025

By AC Wimmer

The pontiff’s participation in upcoming Easter ceremonies remains uncertain as he gradually returns to public activities. Read more

Nativity scene commissioned by Pope Nicholas IV in 1292. Credit: Daniel Ibanez/CNA.

First known Nativity scene figurines are on display in Rome

Dec 27, 2022

By Courtney Mares

The first known Nativity scene figurines are housed in the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Read more

The Salus Populi Romani was checked by Vatican art restorers Jan. 20, 2022.

Popular Marian icon in Rome gets conservation check-up

Jan 20, 2022

By Hannah Brockhaus

Art restorers from the Vatican Museums checked the conservation of an important Byzantine Marian icon in Rome on Thursday. Read more

Nativity scene commissioned by Pope Nicholas IV in 1292. Credit: Daniel Ibanez/CNA.

First known nativity scene figurines can now be seen in St. Mary Major Basilica

Dec 23, 2020

By Courtney Mares

The first known nativity scene figurines are on display this Christmas in one of Rome’s oldest basilicas.  Read more

Mary holding Jesus.

On feast of the Immaculate Conception, Pope Francis points to Mary’s trust in God

Dec 8, 2018

By Courtney Mares

On the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, Pope Francis encouraged Catholics to imitate Mary’s deep trust and openness to God... Read more

A wax figure of St. Therese of Lisieux.

The relics of St Therese, and her parents, will be displayed throughout the synod

Oct 3, 2015

Glass cases with the relics of Saint Therese of Lisieux and her parents, Blessed Louis and Zelie Martin, will be... Read more