Sacra Culla relics to be displayed closer to pilgrims at Santa Maria Maggiore

The historical relics of the Sacra Culla, located at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, will be moved from their usual position in the Confessio to a new location starting October 15. This temporary relocation is intended to allow pilgrims and tourists to view the relics from an extraordinarily close distance.

The relics consist of five thin pieces of sycamore wood, traditionally identified as fragments of the manger where Mary placed Jesus after his birth. The display will involve a new case designed with updated standards for stability, security, and microclimatic control.