Worth a DetourSight · Sacred SiteFree

Santa Maria Maggiore

One of Rome's four great papal basilicas, lined with 5th-century mosaics, and the resting place of Pope Francis.

Photo: NikonZ7II · CC BY-SA 4.0
Open
Every day
Price
Free
Time Needed
45 minutes
Address
Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00185 RomeDirections
Getting There
A 5-minute walk from Termini station.

Why Go

Built in the 5th century, the basilica still has mosaics from that time along its nave. Its coffered ceiling is said to be gilded with the first gold brought from the Americas.

Pope Francis, who often came here to pray, was buried in the basilica in 2025, and many visitors now stop at his simple tomb.

Tips

  • Shoulders and knees must be covered.

Nearby in Rome

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