Originally called the Liberian Basilica in honor of its founder, Pope Liberius, this Basilica was built in the year 358, when the Blessed Virgin appeared in a dream to Pope Liberius and the Patrician John, mandating them to build a church on the exact spot where she would cause snow to fall.

The Church is known as the Oldest Marian Basilica in the West and is home to priceless relics such as the Icon of Our Lady – Salus Populi Romani, and the relic of the Holy Crib.

Why do we celebrate the Dedication of this Basilica?

This Celebration of this feast can be traced back to the 1500’s. This has been done since in honor of the Largest Church in the World dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

When did we begin calling it the “Basilica of Saint Mary Major?”

It was during the Pontificate of Pope Liberius that the Blessed Virgin outlined the Basilica on the Esquiline Hill using snow. It was through the generosity of the Patrician John that the first edifice was built.

However, it was in 431, during the Papacy of Sixtus III when the First Council of Ephesus affirmed the Marian Dogma of the Mother of God that the Liberian Basilica was first renovated, and it was dedicated to the Mother of God. Since then, the Basilica has gained the reputation it is known for today.

Saint Mary Major and the Popes

A total of Eight Popes have chosen this Basilica as their final resting place, the latest of them being Pope Francis, who chose a place adjacent to the Chapel housing the Icon of Our Lady – Salus Populi Romani.

What does this mean for me?


Although the Basilica is extremely far from us, our celebration would be more meaningful if we place great importance not only on the structure itself, but on the Blessed Virgin Mary, to whom the Basilica is dedicated.

The Basilica commemorates the proclamation of Mary as the Mother of God. As we celebrate this day, we are called to renew our devotion to Mary, the Mother of God, trusting that she will bring our intentions to Jesus.