It is one of the four major ancient papal basilicas in Rome along with the basilicas of Saint John in the Lateran, Saint Peter and Saint Mary Major. This church is located within Italian territory and not within the territory of the State of the Vatican, but the Holy See there owns the church, and Italy is legally obligated to recognize its full ownership and waive "the immunity granted under international law to the headquarters of diplomatic representatives of foreign countries". This church also enjoys its distinctive architectural character, its walls decorated with religious drawings, and its green garden with a large statue in the middle.