Perched on top of one of the seven hills on which ancient Rome was built, Santa Maria Maggiore is one of four ... although it’s encased in a Neoclassical facade built in the 1700s.

According to the official website of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Florentine architect Ferdinando Fuga constructed the main facade for the Holy Year celebration in 1750. A dominant feature ...

“I want to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore,” Francis said ... although it’s encased in a Neoclassical facade built in the 1700s. The church has long held a special significance for ...

In the player above: Pope Francis has been interred at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome ... although it’s encased in a Neoclassical facade built in the 1700s. The church has long ...

“I want to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore,” Francis said ... although it’s encased in a Neoclassical facade built in the 1700s. The church has long held a special significance for Pope Francis, who ...