Holy Door of Santa Maria Maggiore

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the four Papal Basilicas of Rome, holds fundamental historical and spiritual importance for Christianity, especially during the Holy Years (Jubilees). In particular, its Holy Door has a special significance as it provides access to a place that preserves centuries of religious tradition, sacred art, and a deep connection to Marian devotion. The Holy Door of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore takes on particular importance during the Jubilee. Like the other Holy Doors of the Papal Basilicas, the Holy Door of Santa Maria Maggiore is only opened during Holy Years, when the Church proclaims the Jubilee and invites the faithful to embark on a journey of conversion and penance. The Holy Door is a symbol of mercy and forgiveness, and crossing it is an act of faith representing the entrance into a new state of grace.

Location:
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is located in Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, in the Esquilino district, in the center of Rome, near Termini Station. It is one of the largest and most visited churches in the city, famous for its majestic architecture and beautiful mosaics.

Address:
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore 42, Rome.

How to get from Via Pozzuoli to Santa Maria Maggiore:
Starting from Via Pozzuoli (in the Appio Latino district, near San Giovanni), the route to Santa Maria Maggiore can be done on foot, by public transport, or by taxi. Here are the details:

  • On foot (Convenient option):
    If you enjoy walking, you can easily cover the distance between Via Pozzuoli and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. The route is about 1.5 km, taking approximately 15-20 minutes on foot.Head towards Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano
    Take Via Merulana, a straight road that connects the two Papal Basilicas.
    You will arrive directly at Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, where you will see the majestic basilica in front of you.
    Travel time: About 15-20 minutes on foot.
  • Metro (Quick option):
    If you prefer to take the metro, you can take Line A (red line) from San Giovanni station (just a few minutes from Via Pozzuoli) towards Battistini.
    Get off at Termini station and walk about 5-10 minutes towards Santa Maria Maggiore.
    Travel time: About 20-25 minutes.
  • Bus (Alternative option):
    You can take a bus from Via Pozzuoli to Santa Maria Maggiore:
    • Line 16 or 360 stop near the basilica, with a stop at Santa Maria Maggiore.
      Travel time: About 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Taxi (More convenient option):
    You can also take a taxi:
    The journey will take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
    Travel time: About 10-15 minutes by taxi.

Opening hours and access to the Holy Door:
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is open every day and welcomes many visitors. During the 2025 Jubilee, the Holy Door will be a central point for pilgrims.

Opening hours:
Monday-Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Times may vary due to special liturgies or Jubilee celebrations).

Holy Door:
The Holy Door will be open during the 2025 Holy Year. The exact times for pilgrim access through the Holy Door will depend on the celebrations and may be tied to Mass times or special liturgical events.

Reservations:
No reservation is required to visit the basilica or cross the Holy Door during the Jubilee. However, reservations may be necessary for special liturgical events, such as the Opening Mass of the Jubilee or other solemn celebrations.

It is possible to book guided tours or specific visits through the official website of the basilica.

Special Liturgies:
During the 2025 Jubilee, the basilica will host several special liturgies, particularly for the Holy Year:

  • Solemn Masses (presided over by the Pope or a delegated cardinal).
  • Eucharistic celebrations for pilgrims visiting.
  • Jubilee rites, such as the opening of the Holy Door and the Jubilee procession.
  • Marian celebrations, considering the basilica’s dedication to the Virgin Mary.

The dates and times of these liturgies will be announced by the Vatican and will be available on the basilica’s website.

General Information in the Area:
Near Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, there are several historical attractions and useful services:

  • Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore: A large and fascinating square, offering a spectacular view of the basilica.
  • Aurelian Walls: Just a short walk from the basilica, you can see the Aurelian Walls, which surround ancient Rome.
  • Colosseum and Roman Forum: A short distance away, you can visit the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, two of the most important historical landmarks in Rome.
  • Shops and restaurants: The area around the basilica is filled with shops, cafés, and restaurants where you can stop for a break.