Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

Founded in the 5th century after Pope Liberius reportedly had a miraculous summer snowfall mark out the church's footprint on the Esquiline Hill — an event still celebrated every August 5th with a shower of white petals. The largest Marian church in Rome and the only major basilica that retains its original early-Christian core, with extraordinary 5th-century mosaics in the apse and along the nave. The gilded coffered ceiling reportedly used the first gold brought back from the Americas, given by Ferdinand and Isabella. Bernini is buried here, alongside several popes. Holds relics traditionally identified as wood from the Holy Crib of Bethlehem. The current Pope was buried here, breaking the tradition of Vatican burial.