Built under Pope Sisto III from 432 to 440, the  Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore rises on the top of Esquiline hill and represents one of the most important Roman churchesChurch. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the tradition says that it was the Virgin Maria to inspire the location of the Basilica. In fact appearing during a dream to Liberio Pope, she would have suggested the place of its building through a divine sign.

When the 5th of August there was an unusual snow fall on the Esquiline hill, the Pope drew in the snow the perimeter of the Basilica. Subsequently the original church was demolished and rebuilt in a more sumptuous way by Pope Sisto III in honour of Efeso Council. Every 5th of August according to tradition this “Miracle of The Virgin Mary” is re-proposed through a suggestive ceremony in honour of that particular episode.

From the marvellous Mecenate Palace Hotel’s terrace is possible to observe the whole ceremony tasting very good aperitif. Another very important event linked to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is the Corpus Domini Celebration. Every year the Pope, during a solemn and evocative ceremony, blesses all the present believers.

The Mecenate Palace Hotel gives a new face to its terrace to offer you an incredible view; besides at the end of the ceremony is possible to taste the chef delicious very special courses.
The Mecenate Palace Hotel is 30 mt away from the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.