renaissance-art:These stunning mosaics decorate Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome which, according to leg
renaissance-art:These stunning mosaics decorate Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome which, according to legend, was built following Pope Liberius’s dream of the Virgin Mary followed by a miraculous summer snow fall the next day indicating where the Virgin wished to have her church. As a result the site is often called “Our Lady of the Snows.” In the 13th century Pope Nicholas IV wanted to redesign the original 5th century mosaic and commissioned Jacopo Torriti in 1291. Upholding the founders dedication to Mary the scenes tell the story of her life with the Coronation as the most prominent scene. It was the first time in Italy that the Coronation was displayed in such a monumental manner. The basilica is also the burial site for the renowned baroque artist Bernini. Both sites are open to visitors. -- source link