This ancient hymn is called Sub tuum praesidium (“Under your protection”). It is the oldest known prayer to the Virgin Mary, dating to the 3rd century. Preserved in a Greek papyrus, it asks for Mary’s intercession and protection in times of danger, reflecting early Christian devotion, faith, and trust in her maternal care.

Sub tuum praesidium confugimus, Sancta Dei Genitrix.
Nostras deprecationes ne despicias in necessitatibus,
sed a periculis cunctis libera nos semper,
Virgo gloriosa et benedicta.

English Translation
We fly to thy protection, O Holy Mother of God.
Despise not our petitions in our necessities,
but deliver us always from all dangers,
O Glorious and Blessed Virgin.

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