Presepio

The first living Nativity Scene (Presepio) originated with St. Francis of Assisi upon his return from the Holy Land. St. Francis' living nativity took place in a cave near Greccio Italy.  A typical presepio has figurines of Mary and Joseph, the infant Jesus in a manger, and three shepherds bearing gifts. If you are celebrating Christmas in Italy and will be in Rome, visit Vatican City to see  a living nativity scene. Other cities with presepio displays include Trento, Verona and Naples. The largest and most elaborate presepi can be found in Rome at the Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Euclide, and on Capitoline Hill. 

On Christmas Eve you can follow the mass celebration with Pope Benedict XVI and stream the live mass from anywhere in the world. The mass will be celebrated in 5 languages: English, Italian, Portuguese, French and Spanish.


http://www.pope2you.net/
http://www.vaticanradio.org/    
http://www.pccs.va/

Buon Natale e Nuovo Anno Felice,

Ciao e a presto,
My Italian Hideaway and All Things Italian

Latest Discovery in Roma

Archaeologists exploring underground catacombs in Roma make a remarkable discovery in the St. Tecla catacomb. Using laser technology to burn away calcium deposits, a team of researchers found 4th century A.D. biblical scenes and painted images of Jesus Christ's beloved Apostles John, Andrew, Peter and Paul. The St. Tecla catacomb was first discovered in the late 1950's but unseen by the public. The restoration effort took two years at a cost of 60,000 euros.

Ciao e a presto,