Dr. Rocky Ruggiero

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, Italy, has always been one of Rome’s most important churches. As one of only four “Major” basilicas, the history of the church reaches all the way back to Early Christian times when the Roman Empire adopted Christianity as its official religion. While a majority of the interior of the church is covered with beautiful 5th-century mosaics, the basilica’s most important work of art is the painting of the Virgin Mary and Child known as the “Salus Populi Romani” which tradition maintains was painted by St. Luke the Evangelist. During his pontificate, Pope Francis visited the church more than 100 times. It is therefore no surprise that he would choose the basilica as his final resting place. Join Dr. Rocky for this pop-up webinar as he explores the art, architecture, and history of the church as well as its special relationship to the late Pope Francis.