Rome celebrates La Madonna della Neve (Our Lady of the Snows) by recreating a miracle snowfall outside the Basilica di S. Maria Maggiore during the height of summer. The spectacle normally takes place on the night of 5 August however this year it is set to snow on 30 August instead, reports Italian newspaper La Repubblica.

The event, organised with the support of the city, the Vatican and the culture ministry, will take place in Piazza di S. Maria Maggiore from 20.00 until midnight on Sunday 30 August. The snowfall and lightshow, which will be accompanied by the Carabinieri band, will be dedicated to Pope Francis.