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Our Lady of the Snows refers to a title for the Virgin Mary, which is associated with a legend about the miraculous snowfall and the foundation of the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome. Some sources classify it as Not Officially Recognized/Apparitions with Limited Recognition. Here's a detailed narrative about this title and its historical and religious significance:
Origin of the Title
• Date: 4th Century, specifically in 358 AD.
• Location: Rome, Italy
• Event: A miraculous snowfall during the night of August 4-5
The Legend
1. Patrician John and His Wife: A wealthy, childless Roman couple, John and his wife, devout in their faith, prayed to the Virgin Mary for guidance on how to use their wealth for her glory.
2. The Vision: On the night of August 4, both the couple and Pope Liberius had a dream where the Virgin Mary appeared, asking them to build a church in her honor on a site she would miraculously indicate.
3. Miraculous Snowfall: On the morning of August 5, in the heat of summer, a miraculous snowfall outlined the area for the church on the Esquiline Hill.
4. Pope Liberius: He traced the outline of the church in the snow and the wealthy couple financed its construction.
The Basilica of Saint Mary Major
• Construction: The original church was built in the 5th century.
• Significance: It's one of the four major basilicas in Rome and the largest church in the world dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
• Art and Relics: The basilica is renowned for its stunning architecture, mosaics, and relics, including what is believed to be part of the crib of Jesus.
The Feast of Our Lady of the Snows
• Date: Annually celebrated on August 5th.
• Celebrations: Involves commemorating the miraculous snowfall and the dedication of the Basilica of Saint Mary Major.
• Traditions: In Rome, the celebration includes a special Mass and a yearly reenactment of the snowfall using white flower petals.
Cultural and Religious Impact
• Devotion: This title of the Virgin Mary highlights themes of humility, providence, and faith.
• Symbolism: The miraculous snow in summer symbolizes purity and the unexpected ways through which divine intentions are manifested.
• Influence: The legend and the church have inspired Christian art and spirituality, emphasizing Mary's role in Christian faith.
Modern Perspective
• Historical Analysis: While the legend is a foundational story, historians discuss its symbolic and theological importance rather than its historical accuracy.
• Contemporary Celebrations: The feast and the basilica continue to attract pilgrims and tourists, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of this Marian title and its significance in Christian tradition.
This narrative combines the legendary, religious, and historical aspects of Our Lady of the Snows, reflecting its profound impact on Christian culture and Roman history.
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For more information on the story of Our Lady of the Snows, you can visit these two sources:

Roman-Catholic-Saints.com: This site offers a detailed account of the history behind the miraculous snowfall in Rome on August 5, 352. It discusses the narrative of John and his wife, their interaction with Pope Liberius, and the divine instructions to build a church on the Esquiline Hill, marked by the miraculous snowfall. This resource also delves into the subsequent establishment of the Basilica of Saint Mary Major and its significance in Christian tradition. For a thorough understanding of the legend and its impact, you can explore the information provided here.

Encyclopedia.com: This source provides a historical perspective on Our Lady of the Snow, focusing on the legend's background and its integration into Christian feasts and devotion. It outlines the skepticism and beliefs surrounding the story, especially the miraculous midsummer snowfall and the church's construction on the Esquiline Hill. The article also touches upon the later developments and the basilica's various names over time. To get a broader view that includes historical analysis and context, you can visit the page here.

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