Marian Column in Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore

Most Marian columns are built in honor of the Virgin Mary. They are often erected in thanksgiving for help from the plague and other hardships.

After the Council of Trent the erection of columns became popular during the Catholic Reformation and are considered a prominent feature of Baroque architecture.

The column in the Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the first in Rome. In 1614, an ancient column was transported to the piazza and adorned with a bronze statue of the Virgin and Child. Again, this asserts one of the goals of the architecture. The Church wanted to exhibit it's power and wealth. In this case, it did so by placing a bronze statue on top of the ancient column. Bronze was the most expensive material, thus using it showed the power and strength of the Church.

It also asserts the decisions from the Council of Trent, shaping the Counter Reformation. As Mary came to symbolize the Church's struggle, it is fitting that this column was erected out of thanksgiving for saving Rome from another plague outbreak. In the years of fear, especially the fear of the plague, Romans turned to the Madonna for safeguarding. Whether the struggle was against Protestants or the Plague, the Virgin symbolized protection and was asserted as the one to turn to when in need. Thus, a statue honoring her protection was appropriate.

Furthermore, the column is in a piazza just outside Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. When the main doors of the church are open, the column dedicated to the Virgin and child is centered in view. Thus, it highlights the importance of Mary, a central figure in a believer's life, according to the Council.