christmas Archives - Official tourist service for Saint Peter's Basilica
CHRISTMAS 2019 IN SAINT PETER’S SQUARE

CHRISTMAS 2019 IN SAINT PETER’S SQUARE

Dec 16, 2019 | In depth

Why does Christmas fall on the 25th of December? The Italian term “Natale” – “Christmas” – derives from the latin dies natalis, day of birth. Both the Greeks and the Romans celebrated the people’s day of birth with parties and gifts. The Roman festival of Natalis...
CHRISTMAS IN ST. PETER’S SQUARE

CHRISTMAS IN ST. PETER’S SQUARE

Dec 19, 2018 | In depth

December 2018: It’s Christmas in St. Peter’s Square! The symbols of Christmas are shining in St Peter’s Square, surrounded by Bernini’s columns, to bring cheer to the Romans, the faithful and tourists alike. The tree and the presepe, the nativity scene, were...
The history of Christmas

The history of Christmas

Dec 11, 2017 | In depth

Christmas is the festival most felt by the faithful believers of all Christian faiths. It celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and occurs on the 25th of December for most of the Christian churches, including the Catholic one. Instead for the Eastern Orthodox Churches...