Major Basilica

A Major Basilica is one of the highest-ranking churches in the Roman Catholic tradition, given special status by the Pope. There are four Major Basilicas, all located in Rome: St. Peter's, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. These churches are significant not only for their architectural beauty and historical importance but also for their spiritual role, often being sites of pilgrimages and important ceremonies. Major Basilicas have exclusive privileges, such as hosting specific liturgical functions and holding the papal altar, emphasizing their prominence within the Church.