From Palazzo Mezzacapo, you reach the majestic Collegiata di Santa Maria a Mare, which dominates the historical center with its grandeur. Originally conceived for defensive purposes, the church was elevated to the status of a collegiate church in 1505 thanks to Pope Julius II. Its hemispherical dome, in brilliant shades of yellow and green, stands out in all its beauty. Visible even from the sea, the dome is a distinctive feature of sacred buildings on the Amalfi Coast.

Dedicated to the patron saint of Maiori, the Collegiata owes its name to the legendary statue of the Madonna and Child, found at sea in the early 1200s by some local fishermen and placed on the high altar. The magnificent coffered ceiling by Alessandro Fulcro enriches the nave. A monumental organ by Zeno Fedeli dominates the entrance to the church. The 18th-century crypt contains the relics of the martyr St. Clement, transferred from Rome to Maiori in 1780. Inside, part of the museum itinerary has been set up, which continues along the aisles and in the sacristy, offering visitors an interesting exhibition of works and historical artifacts.

Every year, on August 15th, the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria a Mare becomes the center of a celebration dedicated to the patron saint. The day culminates in a solemn procession through the streets of Maiori and the spectacular “Corsa della Madonna”, in which the statue is carried on the shoulders up the 127 steps to the church.