Rome during the Christmas season is a delight for the senses. Twinkling lights adorn the city’s cobblestone streets, towering Christmas trees decorate the piazzas, and Nativity scenes can be found in churches and storefronts alike. Whether Shopping malls such as the Gallleria Alberto Sordi or fashion stores such as Fendi's Flagship store in Rome in Largo Goldoni in the Centre or the Piazza Navona Christmas Market. Rinascente on Via del Tritone in the Centre also has stunning Christmas decorations.
Against this enchanting backdrop, the first pilgrims for the Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee, which begins on Christmas Eve, have a unique opportunity to experience the Eternal City’s many Christmas traditions. Pope Francis will open five Jubilee Holy Doors during the Christmas season, between December 24 and January 6, the feast of the Epiphany. The Holy Doors will be situated at the Basilica of St. Peter, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the Basilica of St. Mary Major, and the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. Pope Francis will open the first Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve this year, marking the start of the Jubilee Year. This door will close on the feast of the Epiphany in 2026. All three will close on December 28, 2025.
The nativity scene from the seaside town of Grado, often referred to as “the daughter of Aquileia and mother of Venice,” was created by around 40 volunteers, including professionals and artists, many of whom are members of local associations. It is uniquely set in its living lagoon, which has historical ties to the distant era of the Patriarchs.The nativity scene and the Christmas tree in Saint Peter’s Square will be on display until the conclusion of the Christmas Season, which coincides with the Baptism of the Lord on Sunday, 12 2025.
If you are planning to visit the Vatican, you might be interested in sending a postcard or letter from Vatican City. Vatican City has had its own postal service since 1929 and issues its own stamps. These stamps are known for their high-quality designs and limited quantities, making them highly sought after by stamp collectors. However, everyday travellers and pilgrims also visit the Vatican post offices to mail postcards and letters adorned with Vatican stamps, send greetings to loved ones and acquire unique personal souvenirs. Sending or receiving a postcard with the Vatican postmark can be a delightful experience. For Roman Catholics, a postcard from the Vatican may carry a touch of holiness. The new post office, donated by Poste Italiane, will be situated on the left side of the Square, replacing the older mobile post office, Franzisella.
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