Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of the four major basilicas of Rome, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Pope Francis said in December 2023 that he wants to be buried in this basilica and not in the Vatican. Since becoming pope, Pope Francis has made many visits to the papal basilica, where he usually prays in front of the icon of 'Maria Salus Populi Romani' (Our Lady of Health of the Roman People). Pope Francis is present during the vespers to mark the anniversary of the Dedication of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major and the Solemnity of Mary of the Snows, on August 5, 2024 in Rome. STOCKSHOTS of the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of the four major basilicas of Rome