The Guide to Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

The Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome is the first Basilica to have been dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is the resting place of Pope Francis. Visited by thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year, this is the most innovative, comprehensive, and elegant guide. Text in English and Italian. The Basilica of Saint Mary Major is the only patriarchal basilica of the four in Rome to have retained its paleo-Christian structures and is the resting place of Pope Francis. This elegant guide showcases ultra-high gigapixel photography of the Basilica's interior and traces its history from 425 AD and tradition has it that the Virgin Mary herself inspired the choice of the Esquiline Hill for the church's construction. Appearing in a dream to both the Patrician John, the landowner of the Esquiline Hill, and Pope Liberius, she asked that a church be built in her honour on a site she would miraculously indicate. This is the essential and most innovative guide to this important pilgrimage and tourist site in Rome. Text in English and Italian.