Image of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica (ST. Mary Major)

-- Founded in the 4th century; the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica of Saint Mary Major) is one of the five great ancient basilicas of Rome. Its 18th-century exterior conceals one of the best-preserved Byzantine interiors in the city. Santa Maria Maggiore stands on the site of a temple to the goddess Cybele. According to a 13th-century legend; the first church was built here by Pope Liberius (352-66); on the site of an apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary.