The most beloved and venerated Marian icon

The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome is the oldest church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, not only in Rome but in the whole Western world. Built by Pope Liberius in the fourth century, it was later restored and enlarged by Pope Sixtus III on the occasion of the Council of Ephesus (431), which defined the dogma of the Virgin Mary's divine motherhood. It is the only Roman papal basilica to retain its original Paleochristian foundations, although transformed by successive additions. This extraordinary monument of faith and love for the Mother of God spans more than 16 centuries of history.

Every year, on the last Sunday of January, the Basilica hosts the celebration of the feast of the Translation of the icon Salus populi Romani, to give thanks for this holy image with its obvious oriental characteristics and, according to tradition, the provider of many miracles.

The feast is cherished by the Romans, who attend it in great numbers. They see in this icon their own Madonnna, the Madonna of Rome, the most loved and venerated Marian icon, that acts as a palladium (protection) for their city. In the Pauline Chapel where it is kept, there is always someone in prayer, and the Basilica is among the most visited places by both the Romans and pilgrims.

To understand the spiritual significance of this image, we should add that not only is it an Eastern icon, it is also a very ancient and sacred object. An icon is never just an image, but an invitation to go beyond its simple representation to enter into another dimension, forming a bridge between the human and the divine. This is its most profound “secret.” An icon brings with it a presence, in the sense that it makes present what it represents. We can therefore speak of a special mysticism of icons, which allows us to live a true encounter with God, with Our Lady and with the saints.

Adapted from: Zenit.fr