She is history’s most famous woman, with more schools, churches, and people named for her than any other. She has inspired countless pieces of art and literature, as well as the construction of some of the biggest churches in the world.

Yet the poets also call her “the woman wrapped in silence”.

What lies between these two extremes?

Unpack the mystery that is the Mother of God, a woman who barely speaks in scripture and yet is venerated by millions. In this latest installment of TAN Book’s 101 Surprising Facts series, you’ll discover:

• The term “full of grace” has profound theological implications
• A miraculous snowfall during a sweltering Roman summer led to the construction of a prominent Marian landmark
• One hymn to the Blessed Virgin forbids sitting while it is being sung
• Many different kinds of flowers take their name from Mary
• Dominicans hang rosaries from their hips to emulate medieval soldiers who donned swords in the same place
• The Sistine Chapel is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception
• A vision of Mary consoled the Irish in the aftermath of the great potato famine
• The Mississippi River and the city of Los Angeles had names that were once tied to Our Lady
• And more!

This swift walk through history will uncover the Church’s rich Marian treasury and draw you closer to your spiritual mother so that she can draw you closer to her Son.