Throughout history, Catholic Mariology has been influenced by a number of saints who have attested to the central role of Mary in God's plan of salvation. The analysis of Early Church Fathers continues to be reflected in modern encyclicals. Irenaeus vigorously defended the title of "Theotokos" or Mother of God. The views of Anthony of Padua, Robert Bellarmine and others supported the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, which was declared a dogma in 1850.
Madonna and Child with saints by Duccio, 14th century
The Vision of St Bernard, by Fra Bartolommeo, c. 1504 (Uffizi).
Saint Petrus Canisius contributed to the Hail Mary prayer.
Madonna painted by St. Alphonsus Liguori, c. 1718
Catholic Mariology is Mariology in Catholic theology. According to the Immaculate Conception taught by the Catholic Church, she was conceived and born without sin, hence Mary is seen as having a singular dignity above the saints, receiving a higher level of veneration than all angelic spirits and blessed souls in heaven. Catholic Mariology thus studies not only her life but also the veneration of her in daily life, prayer, hymns, art, music, and architecture in modern and ancient Christianity throughout the ages.
The Blessed Virgin Mary is depicted in a rose-garden with angels playing music. Roses are a symbol of Mary.
A Christ and Mary, mosaic, Chora Church, 12–14th century. "To Christ through Mary", taught by Louis de Montfort.
Santa Maria Antiqua, in the Forum Romanum, 5th century, seat of Pope John VII
Mary as the Queen of Heaven in Dante's Divine Comedy. Illustration by Gustave Doré.
