Rating: 6
Although the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is located outside the Vatican City, it is not subjected to the laws of Italy as it is governed and owned by the Holy See and guarded by Vatican Police.
The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome is one of the 4 papal basilicas and looks more like a palace than a church. Its glorious building captures the wealth and power enjoyed by the Catholic Church.
Inside it is richly decorated in gold, with paintings adorning the walls, awe inspiring even for non Catholics.
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