Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore (Church of St. Mary Major), Assisi

Also known as the Sanctuary of the Spoliation, this Romanesque church traces its origins to the 11th-12th centuries, although it was constructed atop a pre-existing Palaeo-Christian sanctuary. This earlier structure, in turn, had been erected above a Roman edifice known as "Propertius' Domus", believed to have served as a temple dedicated to Apollo or, according to tradition, to Janus.

Initially serving as the city's cathedral until 1036, when the title was transferred to the current Cathedral, the church of San Rufino, it holds significant relevance in the life of Saint Francis. Notably, the saint was baptized here in 1182, and due to its proximity to the Episcopal See, he was a guest of Bishop Guido on several occasions between 1206 and 1208.

The walls house remnants of frescoes and paintings dating from the 14th-15th centuries, including a "Pietà" attributed to Tiberio d'Assisi and works by Pace di Bartolo. (It is likely that these walls were entirely frescoed originally.) There is also a panel featuring the "Madonna with Child", believed to be from Pinturicchio's school.

The crypt, originating from the 10th-century church, showcases Roman architectural elements such as decorated walls, pavements, and capitals from "Propertius' Domus", and a sarcophagus with a sculpted cross dating back to the 9th century.
From the adjacent garden, remnants of the ancient city walls are visible.