Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore - Interactive Tourist Map & Guide

The first Marian sanctuary in the Western world

The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, or translated in English as Basilica of Saint Mary Major, is one of the four major papal basilicas of the Catholic Church, and one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome. It was the first Marian sanctuary in the Western world, and remains the largest Marian church in Rome, Italy. It is frequently visited by the Pope and features several major works of classical art.

Transport is easily accessible from Roma Termini

The Basilica di Santa Maria is located about a 7-minute walk from Roma Termini railway station. This makes it easily accessible for those who may be visiting from outside central Rome. The Basilica can also be reached by taking the Rome Metro, on either of the Line A (red line) or the Line B (blue line). It is about a 7-minute walk, north of Cavour station on the Line B. If you are taking the Line A, the closest station is Termini, which is approximately 5-mintues if traveling on foot.

The Basilica is also well served by local bus routes. Rome Metro bus lines 16, 70, 71, 75, 117, 360, 590, and 649 all make stops in the area immediately surrounding the city block that this site sits on.

Visit nearby attractions Palazzo Massimo and the Colosseum

Local tourist attractions include the Column of Peace, located directly in front of the main entrance, and the Acquario Romano, a nearby museum great for families and kids. The Acquario Romano is about a 6-minute walk to the east, located just south of Roma Termini. The Museo Nazionale Romano Palazzo Massimo is also located close by, only an 8-minute walk, directly to the north.

If you are traveling south from the Basilica, you can also reach the Colosseum and the Roman Forum by foot. Both are within a 25-minute walking distance. Alternatively, these landmarks can be reached using public transit, either the metro or bus routes, with an expected travel time of 10-minutes.

Find hotels close to Basilica of Saint Mary Major

There are several hotels located nearby the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major. Directly across from the main entrance you will find the Mecenate Palace Hotel, a four-star hotel with rooftop views, and to the south side of the church, the Hotel Antico Palazzo Rospigliosi. Located along Via Cavour, you will also find several more hotels including Hotel Valle Rome, Hotel Colosseum, Dharma Boutique Hotel, and Monti Palace Hotel.

The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is centrally located within Rome and easy to reach by public transit, so it is a convenient place to visit it no matter where you are staying.