Rome celebrates La Madonna della Neve on 5 August by recreating a miracle snowfall outside the Basilica di S. Maria Maggiore.

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On August 5 Rome hosts a captivating event that defies the summer heat both symbolically and practically – the celebration of the Madonna della Neve (Our Lady of the Snows). This cherished occasion involves the recreation of an extraordinary miraculous snowfall outside the magnificent

According to ancient legend, in the 4th century, a devout Roman couple sought divine guidance on donating their possessions to the Church. In response to their fervent prayers, the Virgin Mary appeared to them in a vision on the night between August 4th and 5th, 358 AD. She revealed that a miraculous event would occur, guiding them to the precise location for the construction of a new church.

That very night, an astonishing snowfall covered a hill in the . Word of this celestial event reached Pope Liberius, who went to the snowy site and traced the outline of the planned church. With the generous contribution of the devoted couple, the church was built, solidifying the legend of the miraculous snowfall.

INSPIRATION

Though historical evidence supporting the legend is scarce, the event is celebrated annually with unwavering devotion. As the snow gently descends from the sky, Rome relives this extraordinary story, continuing a tradition that has captivated hearts for centuries.

The eagerly awaited 2026 edition of this magical spectacle, supported by the City, the Vatican, and the Ministry of Culture, will take place on Wednesday, August 5th in Piazza di S. Maria Maggiore. This year’s celebration is dedicated to Pope Leo XIV, to the memory of Pope Francis and to the hope for peace in the world.

During the day, the “Miracle of the Snow” is re-enacted inside the basilica with a cascade of white petals falling from above, a symbolic snowfall marking the ancient legend.

The first re-enactment takes place in the morning, during the singing of the Gloria at the 10:00 AM Solemn Mass, presided over by Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, Archpriest of the Basilica.

The second is held at 5:00 PM, during the singing of the Magnificat at Vespers, presided over by Archbishop Luis Manuel Alí Herrera.

In the evening, the square comes alive with the spectacular artificial snowfall, accompanied by lights, music and the Carabinieri band. Now in its 42nd edition, the show runs from 9:00 PM to midnight and draws thousands of Romans and visitors every year.

INSPIRATION

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