Christmas is an important holiday in Rome and is celebrated with a variety of traditions and events. Here are a few ways that Christmas is celebrated in Rome:
- Nativity scenes: Nativity scenes, or presepi, are a popular Christmas tradition in Rome. These displays depict the birth of Jesus and often include miniature figures of Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus, as well as animals and other characters from the story. Many people in Rome set up their own nativity scenes in their homes, and there are also large, elaborate displays set up in public places throughout the city.
- Christmas lights: Rome is known for its beautiful Christmas lights, which are put up in many of the city’s squares and streets in the weeks leading up to Christmas. One of the most famous Christmas light displays can be found along the shopping street Via del Corso, which is decorated with twinkling lights and colorful decorations.
- Christmas markets: Christmas markets, or mercatini di Natale, are a popular tradition in Rome during the holiday season. These markets feature stalls selling Christmas decorations, gifts, and traditional Italian holiday treats such as panettone and torrone.
- Christmas Eve Mass: Christmas Eve Mass, or la Messa di Natale, is an important event in Rome. Many people attend Mass at one of the city’s many churches on Christmas Eve, and there are often special Midnight Masses held on the evening of December 24th.
- Christmas Day celebrations: On Christmas Day, many families in Rome gather together to exchange gifts and enjoy a special holiday meal. Traditional Italian Christmas dishes include roast pork, roast beef, and a variety of seafood.
Overall, Christmas is a festive and joyful time in Rome, with many opportunities to experience the city’s rich cultural traditions.
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