A technique is provided to store fragmented XML data into a relational database by decomposing XML documents with application specific mappings. Data stored on a data store that is connected to a computer is transformed. Initially, an XML document containing XML data is received. A document access definition that identifies one or more relational tables and columns is received. The XML data is mapped from the application DTD to the relational tables and columns using the document access definition by generating a first document object model tree using the XML document, generating a second document object model tree using the document access definition, and mapping the data from the first document object model tree into columns in one or more relational rabies using the second document object model tree.