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Romeing Magazine: December 2024

Rome's English Magazine. In this issue: 2025 Jubilee - A Pilgrim's Guide to Rome; Celebrate Christmas in Rome: Your Ultimate Guide; Where to Spend New Year's Eve in Rome

Rome's English Magazine. In this issue: 2025 Jubilee - A Pilgrim's Guide to Rome; Celebrate Christmas in Rome: Your Ultimate Guide; Where to Spend New Year's Eve in Rome

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THIS ISSUE

2025 JUBILEE: A PILGRIM'S GUIDE TO ROME

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN ROME: YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE

WHERE TO SPEND NEW YEAR’S EVE IN ROME

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ROME’S CULTURAL SCENE, EVENTS, AND LIFESTYLE

freepress

DECEMBER 2024


4 DECEMBER

Orchestra and Choir

of the Accademia di

Santa Cecilia

CONTENTS

n. 12 | year 14 | DECEMBER 2024

www.romeing.it

follow us on

DECEMBER 2024

The King’s Singers

King’s Christmas

12 / 13 / 14 DECEMBER

conductor Dalia Stasevska

Orff Carmina Burana

And music by Sibelius

18 DECEMBER

contralto Anna Caterina Antonacci

piano Donald Sulzen

music by Ravel, Poulenc, Hahn, Respighi

19 / 20 / 21 DECEMBER

conductor Gustavo Dudamel

Tchaikovsky The Nutcracker

complete ballet - in concert version

Cover photo: Alberto Siesto

siestoalberto

Publisher

ROMEING SRL, Via Attilio Regolo, 25 - 00192 Roma

P.iva 11115241009

T./Fax 06.3244614 - M. 339.2832380 - 339.4503374

info@romeing.it

Publishing & Advertising

amendola@romeing.it

Editorial board

Editor-in-Chief: Lorenzo Tagliaferri

Editorial Director: Antonio Amendola, Benedetta Fabris

Editorial Staff: Marc Cefaratti, Lauren Caramico, Lauren Mouat,

Gabriela Proietti, Francesca Feresin, Samantha De Martin,

Valentina Martinoli, Paola Morotti, Beatrice Tura, Elisa Peduto,

Arianna Callocchia, Denisa Savin, Lisa Johnson, Federica Bocco,

Aimee Zoon, Annabella Bernhardt

Design, layout & web: Art Project - www.artproject.it

Registered with the Court of Rome n. 411/2010

Publisher does not assume responsibility for errors, omissions

and changes in editorial or advertising material.

The contents of Romeing is intended for personal use. All

materials published in Romeing are protected by copyright, and

owned or controlled by Romeing.

Romeing is a registered trademark. All rights reserved.

#ROMEING

FEATURES

04 2025 JUBILEE IN ROME

06 HOW ROME IS PREPARING FOR THE JUBILEE

08 HOLY DOORS AND JUBILEE WALKING ITINERARIES

10 THE PILGRIM’S CARD

12 JUBILEE EVENTS IN ROME

14 TOP THINGS TO DO IN ROME THIS CHRISTMAS

20 BEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS

24 A GUIDE TO ITALIAN CHRISTMAS GIFTS, MADE IN ROME

30 MUST SEE: CHURCH OF SANTO STEFANO ROTONDO

32 ROMEING SHOP: COCKTAIL-MAKING CLASS

REVIEWS

34 EATING

36 DRINKING

EVENTS

42 BEST OF

46 NEW YEAR’S EVE IN ROME

52 MUSIC

54 ART&CULT

56 THIS MONTH IN MUSEUMS

ROMEING FLORENCE

60 WHAT TO DO IN FLORENCE THIS CHRISTMAS

AUDITORIUM PARCO DELLA MUSICA ENNIO MORRICONE, ROMA / SANTACECILIA.IT

TOURS, EXPERIENCES AND AIRPORT TRANSFERS:

WWW.ROMEING.IT/SHOP



2025 Jubilee In Rome:

Pilgrims Of Hope

In 2025, Rome will welcome a new Holy Year,

a profound event celebrated under the motto

“Pilgrims of Hope,” chosen by Pope Francis.

This Jubilee is expected to draw millions

from around the world, marking a spiritual

journey and celebration rooted in faith,

forgiveness, and community. Pope Francis,

who led the last extraordinary Jubilee in

2015, emphasizes the 2025 Jubilee as a

time to renew the sense of connection and

unity, offering a space for reflection and hope

following years of global challenges.

The Jubilee is a year of special grace

in which the Catholic Church offers the

possibility to ask for a plenary indulgence to

forgive the sins for oneself or one’s deceased

family members. Plus, it is an opportunity to

reconnect with one’s faith and with others in

a spiritual celebration of reconciliation.

The Jubilee runs from just before Christian

Christmas to the Epiphany, that is, from

December 2024 to January 2026. This

spectacular event, though inexorably

appreciated by Christians all over the world,

is a unique occasion to visit Rome even for

secular observers.

Here is everything you need to know about

the Jubilee, to make the most of it.

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2025 JUBILEE IN ROME: PILGRIMS OF HOPE 2025 JUBILEE IN ROME: PILGRIMS OF HOPE

with an expected finish in early 2025.

Piazza Risorgimento, a gateway to St. Peter’s Square, is being redeveloped to create

more pedestrian areas and welcome larger crowds. Via Ottaviano, connecting metro line

A’s Ottaviano station to St. Peter’s, is being transformed into a pedestrian boulevard to

accommodate Jubilee pilgrims.

Piazza della Repubblica is undergoing a redevelopment, including new pedestrian zones

and upgrades to the Fountain of the Naiads. Piazza San Giovanni will feature fully renovated

pavement, ready in time for the opening of the Holy Door.

Other key projects include the restoration of Parco Schuster (near the Basilica of St. Paul

Outside the Walls), and the upgrade of Pilgrim Paths. Piazzale dei Cinquecento, near Termini

Station, is also part of the improvement plan, but it is scheduled for completion after the

Jubilee.

The iconic Trevi Fountain is currently undergoing extraordinary maintenance which is expected

to conclude by the end of the year. A special walkway has been installed, allowing visitors a

close-up view of Nicola Salvi’s masterpiece. Finally, the fountains by Bernini in Piazza Navona

are also undergoing a restoration project.

Rome’s roads are also being modernized. Upgrades are being made to the Lungotevere,

Rome’s bridges and the famous cobblestone streets.

The metro system is also receiving significant upgrades, including maintenance on Metro

Lines A and B, and the addition of new trains. Bus routes have also been adjusted to

accommodate these changes.

How Rome Is Preparing For The 2025 Jubilee

Rome is gearing up for the 2025 Jubilee with 327 projects worth over €4 billion, transforming

its iconic landmarks and infrastructure.

One of the most significant projects is happening at Piazza Pia. The aim is to free the area

between St. Peter’s Basilica and Castel Sant’Angelo from cars and make it fully pedestrianfriendly.

The project includes extending the existing underpass by about 130 meters,

improving accessibility, installing a new lighting system, and repaving the zone. The work is

expected to be completed by December 8, 2024.

Restoration work is also underway at Ponte Sant’Angelo, focusing on its parapets and statues,

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2025 JUBILEE IN ROME: PILGRIMS OF HOPE 2025 JUBILEE IN ROME: PILGRIMS OF HOPE

to receive the “Jubilee Indulgence.”

For those looking to get the full experience

by making a Jubilee pilgrimage, there are

designated routes for “penitential” walks

that begin at each Papal Basilica and

end at St. Peter’s. There are four main

itineraries, Via Papale, Via del Pellegrino and

Cammino Mariano, all of which end at Castel

Sant’Angelo, where a protected pathway

leads pilgrims to St. Peter’s.

The Via Papale begins at St. John Lateran,

passes the Colosseum and Mamertine

Prison, and splits in two at Piazza Navona,

where one can either go to Santa Maria

in Vallicella, (a.k.a.Chiesa Nuova) or San

Salvatore in Lauro.

The Via del Pellegrino route begins at St John

Lateran as well, although from there it stops

at San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorentini before

winding all the way to Castel Sant’Angelo.

The Cammino Mariano begins at St Mary

Major then passes several churches

dedicated to Our Lady and joins Via Papale

at Piazza Navona. Churches are selected as

stopping points for their historical and sacred

importance as places where Pilgrims can go

to confess and pray.

There is also the ancient “Seven Church

Walk” which dates by to 1552 and can take

one or two days depending on how fast you

cover the 20km distance. The pilgrimage

includes the four major basilicas along with

San Lorenzo fuori le Mura, Santa Croce in

Gerusalemme, and San Sebastiano fuori le

Mura. The walk, which has traditionally been

done overnight after the 7pm mass at Santa

Maria Vallicella, starts at St. Peter’s and ends

at St Mary Major.

Holy Doors and Jubilee Walking Itineraries

The Holy Door is the most profound symbol of the Jubilee, representing a sacred passage

for pilgrims seeking spiritual renewal. The Pope’s opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s on

December 24th marks the official start of Jubilee 2025.

Each major basilica in Rome also has a Holy Door that will open during the Jubilee: St. John

Lateran’s on December 29th, St. Mary Major’s on January 1st, and St. Paul Outside the Walls’

on January 5th.

Although these beautiful basilicas are always worth visiting, the chance to walk through these

“doorways of mercy” is a once in a lifetime opportunity for many, especially for those looking

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2025 JUBILEE IN ROME: PILGRIMS OF HOPE 2025 JUBILEE IN ROME: PILGRIMS OF HOPE

Once the pilgrim’s account has been

finalized, you can use the app and website

for a detailed calendar of the year’s events

as well as to sign up for all the other main

events of the Jubilee, including the most

important: the pilgrimage to the Holy Door

of Saint Peter’s Basilica. This system will

maintain an orderly procession in each

event, as a large numbers of pilgrims are

expected to attend.

The Pilgrim’s Card For The 2025 Jubilee

To join the events of the 2025 Jubilee, including Holy Door pilgrimages, visitors need the free

digital Pilgrim’s Card (Carta del Pellegrino). This pass serves as a “passport” to Jubilee events

and helps pilgrims organize their spiritual journeys.

The card grants access to major religious sites like St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Paul’s Outside the

Walls, St. John Lateran, and St. Mary Major. It also includes details on pilgrimage routes and

recommendations to enhance the experience.

Logistically, the card serves as a form of registration that will help the Roman authorities

manage the movement and needs of the millions of visitors who will come to Rome during a

Holy Year, like 2025.

Pilgrims can register for the card through the official Jubilee website or the “Iubilaeum25”

mobile app, creating an account to receive a unique QR code.

On the mobile app, “Iubilaeum25,” pilgrims

can find a list of the Jubilee events as well

as descriptions of each event alongside

the link to sign up. After registering a

new account on the app, or logging into

a preexisting account registered on the

website, pilgrims have access to detailed

schedules and a variety of resources

relating to the Jubilee. The mobile app is

great for travelers to quickly check in on

each of the events and to secure their

places ahead of time in the pilgrimage.

The portal will allow registration for events

as groups or as individuals and will also

allow pilgrims advice for each event

considering any disabilities or special

access requirements.

Pilgrims can modify, cancel, or reschedule

their bookings using the app or website

as well.

PILGRIM’S CARD WEBSITE

1 WWW.IUBILAEUM2025.VA/EN/CARTA-DEL-PELLEGRINO.HTML

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2025 JUBILEE IN ROME: PILGRIMS OF HOPE

JUBILEE 2025

CALENDAR OF MAJOR EVENTS

The Events Of The 2025 Jubilee In Rome

The Jubilee will bring together pilgrims from around the globe for a year filled with spiritual

renewal and community. With a lineup of 36 main events, each celebrating different aspects of

faith and fellowship, there’s something for everyone to participate in.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

1 WWW.IUBILAEUM.VA

Photo Vatican Media

DECEMBER 2024

24 December

Opening of the Holy Door of Saint

Peter’s Basilica

JANUARY 2025

24-26 January

Jubilee of the World

of Communications

FEBRUARY 2025

8-9 February

Jubilee of Armed Forces, Police

and Security Personnel

15-18 February

Jubilee of Artists

21-23 February

Jubilee of Deacons

MARCH 2025

8-9 March

Jubilee of the World of Volunteering

28 March

24 Hours for the Lord

28-30 March

Jubilee of the Missionaries

of Mercy

APRIL 2025

5-6 April

Jubilee of the Sick and Health

Care Workers

25-27 April

Jubilee of Teenagers

28-29 April

Jubilee of People with

Disabilities

MAY 2025

1-4 May

Jubilee of Workers

4-5 May

Jubilee of Entrepreneurs

10-11 May

Jubilee of Marching Bands

12-14 May

Jubilee of the Eastern Churches

16-18 May

Jubilee of Confraternities

30 May - 1 June

Jubilee of Families, Children,

Grandparents and the Elderly

JUNE 2025

7-8 June

Jubilee of Ecclesial Movements,

Associations and New

Communities

9 June

Jubilee of the Holy See

14-15 June

Jubilee of Sport

20-22 June

Jubilee of Governments

23-24 June

Jubilee of Seminarians

25 June

Jubilee of Bishops

25-27 June

Jubilee of Priests

JULY 2025

28 July - 3 August

Jubilee of Youth

SEPTEMBER 2025

15 September

Jubilee of Consolation

20 September

Jubilee of Justice

26-28 September

Jubilee of Catechists

OCTOBER 2025

4-5 October

Jubilee of the Missions

4-5 October

Jubilee of Migrants

8-9 October

Jubilee of Consecrated Life

11-12 October

Jubilee of Marian Spirituality

31 October - 2 November

Jubilee of the World of Education

NOVEMBER 2025

16 November

Jubilee of the Poor

22-23 November

Jubilee of Choirs

DECEMBER 2025

14 December

Jubilee of Prisoners

1024

www.iubilaeum2025.va

@iubilaeum25

12

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Top

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and here in Rome jolly doesn’t even begin to

explain the level of yuletide cheer and spirit you’ll feel after completing

our top ten list of Christmas must-dos.

Look out for

Christmas Trees in Rome

Nothing says Christmas quite like a traditional

decorated tree, and undoubtedly the most

symbolic one is the Christmas tree in St.

Peter’s Square. This year, the tree, 29 meters

tall, comes from Ledro in Trentino. The

inauguration ceremony will take place on

December 7th at 6:30 PM.

Another iconic Christmas tree in Rome is usually set up in Piazza Venezia, but this year, due to

the construction work on Metro Line C, it will be moved to Piazza del Popolo. After Dior, it will

be Bulgari’s turn to sponsor the Christmas tree in Piazza di Spagna: a stunning futuristic and

modern reproduction, 13 meters high.

Go Ice Skating

Don’t act so surprised, Rome has its fair

share of festive holiday rinks for ice skating,

even if the weather in December is rarely

close to freezing. Rome’s Christmas ice

skating rinks are usually in the following

locations:

1 romeing.it/ice-skating-rinks-in-rome/

THINGS

to do in Rome THIS

CHRISTMAS

• Santa Claus Wonderland, Piazzale

Maresciallo Diaz

• Ice Park Foro Italico

• Ice Park Piazza Re di Roma

• Christmas World, Villa Borghese

• Luneur, Via delle Tre Fontane, 100

• Eur Christmas Rome, Piazza Don Luigi

Indulge in Panettone

or Pandoro

By now you have probably noticed the

colorful boxes of large round cake-bread

stacked in every available corner of Rome’s

supermarkets, pasticcerie, and even the

local “cinese.” Although it is considered

perfectly acceptable by Italian standards to

go hard on the panettone or pandoro of your

choice before, during and after Christmas, be

advised: not all panettone and pandoro were

created equal. Here are some of the best

places to purchase pandoro and panettone

in Rome:

• Le Levain, Via Luigi Santini 22/23 – Via

Piave, 9

• Antico Forno Roscioli, Via dei Chiavari 34

• Walter Musco, Largo Bompiani 8

• Gruè, viale Regina Margherita 95/99

• Panificio Bonci, via Trionfale 34/36

• Cresci, Via Alcide de Gasperi, 11-17

• Casa Manfredi, Viale Aventino, 91/93

Via dei Conciatori, 5

TOP THINGS TO DO THIS CHRISTMAS IN ROME

Christmas World

at Villa Borghese

Are you ready to embark on a virtual

journey through the most typical

Christmas atmospheres around the

world? The Christmas World at Villa

Borghese is returning for another

round of holiday joy. With replicas

of cities around the world, musical

performances, a carousel, a chocolate

factory, an ice-skating rink and even

a model of Santa’s house, there’s

something for every member of the

family. And if that wasn’t enough, each

city replica will also have its own food

court for your tasting pleasure. The

Christmas World at Villa Borghese is

open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM.

• 30 November 2024 – 6 January 2025

Villa Borghese

entry fee from €17,60

Sturzo

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DECEMBER 2024



TOP THINGS TO DO THIS CHRISTMAS IN ROME

TOP THINGS TO DO THIS CHRISTMAS IN ROME

Trame di Luce at

The Botanical Garden

An immersive and multisensory journey where

light takes center stage, celebrating Christmas and

beyond. This is Trame di Luce (Weaves of Light),

returning to Rome this year with a trail of 22 stops that

reimagine the spaces of the Botanical Garden through

contemporary creativity and light art. From November

30 to January 6, 2025, Trame di Luce transports

visitors into a dreamlike dimension right from the start,

with its entrance at the outdoor spaces of Palazzo

Corsini, home to the National Academy of the Lincei and the starting point of the journey. The

installations have been created by national and international artists, as well as talented students

from various Italian universities.

See some Nativity Scenes

Christmas wouldn’t be complete without the

star of the show (Baby Jesus that is, not Santa

Claus). To get your fill of nativity scenes for a

lifetime, check out the 100 Presepi in Vaticano,

the most traditional Christmas exhibition in

Rome, or peek into the major churches to see

the various forms of Christmas Nativities.

Gospel festival

One of the best ways to spread some

holiday cheer is through music. However,

for those of us who were not given the gift

of song, caroling is out of the question, nor

would we suggest caroling around Rome

for that matter. Thankfully, the Gospel

Festival hosts a series of holiday concerts

guaranteed to lift your spirits.

• 21 December 2024 – 1 January 2025

Auditorium Parco della Musica

1 romeing.it/roma-gospel-festival/

• 30 November 2024 – 6 January 2025

Botanical Garden of Rome

1 romeing.it/trame-di-luce-botanical-garden-rome/

Catch a Christmas play or concert

This year the Natale all’Auditorium Festival offers a

rich calendar of shows and concerts. The program

includes different music concerts, together with the

traditional Roma Gospel Festival, one of the most

important gospel events in Europe.

On December 19, 20, and 21, the Accademia

Nazionale di Santa Cecilia presents Tchaikovsky’s

The Nutcracker. The Nutcracker will also be

performed as a ballet by the Teatro dell’Opera di

Roma from December 15 to 24.

• 8 December 2024 – 6 January 2025

The Auditorium della Conciliazione presents A

Colonnato di Piazza San Pietro

Christmas Carol Musical on December 21 and 22.

1 romeing.it/100-presepi-nativity-scenes-rome/

On December 27 and 28, the traditional event with

the Harry Potter saga returns in the extraordinary

“cine-concert” format.

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TOP THINGS TO DO THIS CHRISTMAS IN ROME

1 romeing.it/christmas-concerts-churches-rome/

Concerts & Masses in

Churches

Music = Merriment and Holiday cheer. Attend

a free concert in one of the beautiful churches

throughout Rome.

Be dazzled by Christmas

lights in Rome

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas,

especially in the winding vicolos and side

streets decked with twinkling lights and

glowing orbs hung above. Take a stroll

down these decorated stradas and admire

the Christmas lights, taking in the festive

holiday vibes. While you’re at it, try the

chestnuts roasting on an open fire…

• Via dei Condotti & Palazzo Fendi

• Via del Governo Vecchio

• Via Giulia

• Via del Corso

• Via del Boschetto & Via Urbana

• Colosseum

• Via Vittorio Veneto

• Piazza di Spagna & Piazza Mignanelli

• Via del Babuino

Wander Around

a Christmas Market

Christmas markets in Rome have always been

part of the holiday fun, and they always bring in

a certain joy during this time of year. You have

the possibility to choose between a wide range

of options: from Italian craft to vintage clothing,

from Christmas food classics to Japanese

decor, discover all the Christmas markets in

the city!

1 romeing.it/christmas-markets-in-rome

TOP THINGS TO DO THIS CHRISTMAS IN ROME

Attend the Opening

of the Holy Door

For the Jubilee 2025, each of the four major

basilicas in Rome will open their Holy Doors to

inaugurate the Holy Year.

The Holy Door of Saint Peter’s Basilica will open

on December 24, 2024, officially marking the

beginning of the Jubilee. The Holy Door of Saint

John Lateran will open on December 29, Saint Mary

Major’s Holy Door on January 1, 2025, and the Holy

Door of Saint Paul Outside the Walls on January 5, 2025.

1 romeing.it/holy-doors-jubilee-walking-itineraries/

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CHRISTMAS

MARKETS IN ROME

With the Christmas season in full-swing

and the Eternal City already illuminated in

festive displays, what better time to sip some

mulled wine and pick up some eclectic gifts

at one of the many markets happening this

month in Rome.

Here are some of our favorites:

Japan Days Christmas Edition

14-15 December 2024

10am – 7.30pm

Ippodromo delle Capannelle

CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN ROME

Piazza Mazzini

Christmas Fair Market

1-29 December 2024

9am – 7.30pm

Piazza Mazzini

This year-round vintage market gets into

the holiday cheer as it transforms into a

Christmas Fair. Discover a range of unique,

vintage Christmas crafts, gifts, decorations

and more.

Piazza Navona

1 December 2024 – 6 January 2025

Piazza Navona

The historic and traditional Christmas

market in Piazza Navona is back! Wander

through the grand Piazza Navona as

you stop between local vendors offering

sweets, chestnuts, artisanal crafts and

artwork. You are sure to be entertained by

the festive holiday rides, nativity scene and live performers, all of which are surrounding the

architectural beauty of Bernini’s Quattro Fiumi, Saint Agnese Church, and Palazzo Pamphili.

The Christmas edition of Japan Days is back

at the Ippodromo delle Capannelle. Not only a

Christmas market, but a full immersion in the

Japanese world with more than 100 exhibitors

selling traditional kimono, typical Japanese food, comics and bonsai. Live a full immersion

in the oriental side of the world through workshops for children, a wellness area and a game

corner: you will feel as if you were in Japan!

Giftland: the city of the gift

7-8, 14-15 and 21-22 December 2024

10am – 8pm

San Paolo District – Via A. Severo, 48

For three weekends, VGMT will transform into

a magical place to find the perfect gift, enjoy

great food, live music, and amazing activities

for all ages! 6000 sqm market featuring

over 200 exhibitors from all over Italy: vintage clothing and accessories, handmade creations,

Christmas decorations, children’s toys, and much more!

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CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN ROME

CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN ROME

Ficus al massimo

“Christmas Edition”

7-8, 14-15, 21-22 December 2024

10.30am-9pm

Garum Museo e Biblioteca della

cucina – Via dei Cerchi, 87

Artisans from all over Italy will

showcase their creations at the

Garum Museo e Biblioteca della

cucina, a special place near the

Circus Maximus in Rome. Here,

surrounded by ancient artifacts,

visitors can explore more than

2,000 carefully crafted gift ideas.

This unique market in the heart of

Rome brings together handmade

products, design items, plants,

flower arrangements, illustrations,

and luxury vintage goods.

Merkat* Christmas

Edition

20-22 December 2024

10am-8pm

Alcazar Live - Via Cardinal Merry

del Val, 14

Get your dose of holiday shopping

at Merkat*: Alcazar’s Christmas

Market — the market in Trastevere

that promotes quality and creativity.

Taking place at Alcazar Live, the

market showcases made-in-

Italy design and artisan objects,

emerging talents, collectors’

favorites, vintage items, fashion

and craftwork. All accompanied by

aperitivo and a lot of music.

Cinecittà World

Christmas Market

until 6 January 2025

11am – 7pm

Cinecittà World – Via Irina Alberti

Cinecittà World theme park

transforms into a magical Christmas

Village amidst illuminated paths,

sparkling lights, festive decorations,

Christmas shows, Christmas

markets brimming with gift ideas,

unique handicrafts, and plenty of

fun for friends and families with

themed attractions. And don’t

miss Oriental World – The Chinese

Lantern Festival, a pathway of lights,

grand architecture, exotic animals,

myths and legends, as well as a true

culinary experience of Chinese food.

Eur Christmas Rome

1 December – 6 January 2025

Piazza Don Luigi Sturzo

From December 1st to January

6th, in Piazza Don Luigi Sturzo,

immerse yourself in the festive

holiday atmosphere. The entire

Eur Christmas Rome Village, with

free entry, will be illuminated with

beautiful Christmas lights and offers

a variety of activities, including a

traditional Christmas market with

seasonal treats, the warm aroma of

mulled wine, Santa Claus, and an

ice-skating rink.

1

FOR MORE CHRISTMAS MARKETS, CHECK OUR ONLINE GUIDE AT

ROMEING.IT/CHRISTMAS-MARKETS-IN-ROME/

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A Guide to Italian

Christmas Gifts,

Made in Rome

p

Elisa Peduto

Christmas is just around the

corner, and everyone is in the

throes of buying presents for

their loved ones – a tradition

cherished by most families.

The shopkeepers are all ready

and waiting for the unbridled

Christmas shopping that

characterizes this time of year.

Often our free time is limited,

so to facilitate this beautiful

tradition that should bring smiles

and not stress, here is a guide to

Christmas gifts made in Rome,

aimed at supporting the city’s

commerce. After all, Christmas

is a season to think about our

neighbors and extend a helping

hand to those in need!

Eager to infuse your gifts with

authentic Italian flair? Then you

should familiarize yourself with

the most beloved gifts among

Italians.

Traditional Italian Christmas

gifts span a diverse range,

encompassing fashion items,

such as clothes, hats and

gloves, bags and jewelry, beauty

products, and high-quality food

products assembled in special

Christmas baskets. Italians take

pride in making memorable gifts,

and the city of Rome has plenty

of choices. It’s also becoming

more common to add presents

bought for charity purposes

and to keep an eye on the

sustainability of the purchases

by supporting the small traders.

Rome’s family-run shops are

full of unique treasures you

won’t find in large malls. Many

of these stores extend their

hours during the holiday season,

making it easy to shop even on

Sundays.

24 ROMEING

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DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



A GUIDE TO ITALIAN CHRISTMAS GIFTS, MADE IN ROME

A GUIDE TO ITALIAN CHRISTMAS GIFTS, MADE IN ROME

Monti is an ideal place to explore

charming boutiques. For minimalist,

gender-neutral bags, visit Hang Roma

(via degli Zingari, 32). For a bit of

underground fashion, head to Groovin

(piazza della Suburra, 1). Check out

Nous Atelier (via del Boschetto, 109),

run by two sisters who design both

clothes and jewelry.

For tailored Italian style, check out

Mia Carmen’s atelier (via Panisperna,

62). Men will appreciate the timeless

craftsmanship at AZ Camiceria, a

tailor specializing in custom shirts since

1939. Vintage lovers can stop by King

Size Vintage (via Leonina, 78/79) or

explore the shops along via del Governo

Vecchio.

For rock-and-roll-inspired accessories,

The Guitar Bag Project (via del

Pellegrino) near Campo de’ Fiori crafts

leather bags and accessories that are

perfect for music fans.

For womenswear and accessories,

don’t miss G’local, a charming

boutique in Piazza Campo Marzio that

blends the best of local and global

designs.

And if you’re in search of a distinctive

gift, Derrick Jones Studio in

Monteverde (via Andrea Busiri Vici 12)

is a must-visit. Run by Derrick Jones,

this showroom is a treasure trove of

chic finds.

For refined homewares, Chez Dede

(Via di Monserrato) is an elegant

boutique with a curated selection of

premium accessories.

Italy is known for its hat-making

tradition, so stop by Antica

Cappelleria Troncarelli (via degli

Scipioni, 46) in Prati for elegant

hats or visit Boutique Borsalino

(various locations) for classic Italian

craftsmanship.

Galleria Sordi, a historic shopping

arcade in the heart of Rome, is also a

great spot for gifts, featuring stores like

Uniqlo, Mango, and more.

For a special jewelry gift, Andrea925 (Prati) offers handmade silver pieces with modern

designs. Co.Ro. Jewels (Via della Scrofa, 52) has stunning designs inspired by Rome’s

beauty and architecture, all crafted in the city’s center.

For something truly luxurious, visit Ansuini (Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 151) for unique

pieces inspired by Roman Baroque. Or, stop by Bulgari’s flagship store on Via Condotti for

world-renowned jewelry.

Beauty products make thoughtful gifts, and you’ll find a wide selection at La Rinascente

(via del Tritone, 61), Coin Excelsior (via Cola di Rienzo, 173), and OVS (via del Tritone,

172).

For natural beauty items, head to Antica Erboristeria Romana near the Pantheon, where

you’ll discover a variety of herbal products. If honey products sound like a good idea, you

should definitely drop in at the Erboristeria Apistica Romana in Prati. Also in Prati,

L’Erboristeria Il Germoglio has been offering unique gift sets for over 40 years.

26 ROMEING

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DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



A GUIDE TO ITALIAN CHRISTMAS GIFTS, MADE IN ROME

A GUIDE TO ITALIAN CHRISTMAS GIFTS, MADE IN ROME

A beautifully curated food basket filled with high-quality Italian delicacies makes for

a thoughtful and versatile gift. Eataly (the Italian food mall) offers gourmet baskets

filled with organic products like olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and regional delicacies.

You can customize your basket to fit any budget.

For wine lovers, stop by Enoteca Del Frate (via degli Scipioni, 122) or Enoteca

Cavour (via Cavour, 313) for a selection of Italian wines and liquors. For a more

historical experience, visit Trimani (via Goito, 20), one of the oldest wine shops in

Rome.

Rome also has some fantastic shops for children’s gifts, offering a mix of fun and

educational items. L’albero Diventò (Prati) is a unique shop with a selection of

quality toys. For educational toys, La Città del Sole (Prati and near Piazza Navona)

is a great place to find creative and educational gifts.

For plush toys and vintage dolls, visit Al Sogno (Piazza Navona), a historic store

that has been delighting children for over 75 years. For traditional Italian toys,

check out Pinocchio Toys Roma (via del Tritone, 124), where you’ll find wooden

Pinocchio dolls and other classic Italian toys.

For handmade gifts, visit Rome’s Christmas markets, including those in Piazza

Navona, Piazza Mazzini (Prati), and the huge Giftland market in the San Paolo

district. These markets offer a chance to support local artisans and find unique,

handcrafted gifts.

Avoid the last-minute rush by starting your Christmas shopping early. This way,

you’ll have time to explore the many charming boutiques and shops that offer

unique, high-quality Italian gifts. While the rush may be a part of the holiday

experience, planning ahead will make your gift-giving even more meaningful and

stress-free.

28 ROMEING

ROMEING 29

DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



x

MUST-SEE

THE CHURCH OF SANTO STEFANO ROTONDO

Its flat exterior belies a circular plan, unusual for any church and especially one built in the

mid 5th century. The building is preceded by a portico containing five granite arches with

Corinthian capitals.

The church is located on the Celio Hill, near the Monti neighborhood, and can be accessed

from one of the many vaults of Nero’s expansion of the Claudian aqueduct that is surrounded

by the Roman walls.

Santo Stefano Rotondo is one of the most requested churches for weddings in Rome due to its

intimate and peaceful interior. The central nave and altar are encircled by columns with seats

bordering the entirety of the nave, however, the most fascinating parts of the church are to be

found far from the center of the rotunda.

The Church Of Santo Stefano Rotondo

Via di Santo Stefano Rotondo 7

Winter Hours

Tue-Sun: 10am-1pm, 2-5pm

Summer Hours

Tue-Sun: 10am-1pm, 3:30-6:30pm

...................................................................................

There are 34 frescoes that decorate the interior walls and the depictions are far more

gruesome than visitors would expect. The frescoes depict scenes of martyrdom, including

somewhat gnarly images of the torture of well-known martyrs of Christianity.

The scenes were frescoed on the interior wall at the end of the 16th century and each

painting has an inscription explaining the scene and giving the name of the emperor who

ordered the execution, as well as a quotation from the Bible.

Entrance to Chiesa di Santa Stefano Rotondo is entirely free and the site is open all days but

Monday. Be sure to stop by this unique and ancient chapel on your next trip to Monti or the

Colosseum!

Behind an ancient wall

and nestled in a secluded

garden lies one of the most

unique churches in Rome:

the church of Santo Stefano

Rotondo. Dating back to the

late 400s (CE), the church

is respected as the oldest

church with a circular floor

plan in Rome as well as the

Hungarian national church.

Thought to be constructed

along the curve of the

Macellum Magnum, Emperor

Nero’s marketplace, the

church may actually have

been inspired by the Church

of the Holy Sepulcher in

Jerusalem.

30 ROMEING

ROMEING 31

DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



ROMEING SHOP

www.romeing.it/shop

Drink Like Italians: Cocktail-

Making Class in the heart of

Rome

A DURATION 2 hours

c TIME

5.30-7.30pm

a 1 FREQUENCY from Monday to Thursday

q LANGUAGES English or Italian

! MEETING POINT Il Marchese – Via di Ripetta, 162

€ PRICE €70

ROMEING SHOP

BOOK NOW

................................................................................................................................................................

www.romeing.it/shop/product/cocktail-making-class-rome/

................................................................................................................................................................

Description

Dive into the art of Italian cocktail-making with

an unforgettable experience in Rome’s historic

center. At the trendy Il Marchese bar, you’ll learn

how to prepare two iconic Italian cocktails—Spritz

and Negroni (or Americano)—guided by a skilled

bartender.

During the workshop, discover insider tips and

secrets for mastering these classic drinks while

exploring the best ways to pair them with food. After

crafting your cocktails, relax in the bar’s atmosphere,

sip on your creations, and enjoy a traditional Italian

aperitivo.

Highlights

• Cocktail workshop with a bartender in a trendy bar in Rome’s historic

centre

• Learn to make two classic Italian cocktails: Spritz, Negroni or

Americano

• Sip your handmade cocktails and chat with bartender

• Learn cocktail-making tips and secrets

• Lesson in English or Italian

Inclusions

• 2 cocktails

• Cocktail-making equipment

• Aperitivo romano

Exclusions

• Transport

• Optional gratuities

32 ROMEING

ROMEING 33

DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



EATING

EATING

IL MARCHESE

Via di Ripetta, 162 (Centro Storico)

Daily 12:30pm – 2am

06.90218872

ilmarcheseroma.it

ilmarcheseroma

Il Marchese unites the best of two worlds: a bar with

elegant French salon accents and pompous chandeliers,

and a restaurant with the coziness of a Roman trattoria.

But it’s not just the décor that’s impressive. When you

walk into Il Marchese you step inside Europe’s first Amaro

bar with more than 500 different Amaro labels.

During the recent G20 in Rome, Il Marchese had two

special customers: the American First Lady Jill Biden

and the French Première Dame Brigitte Macron. The two

ladies said they were “delighted with the lovely welcome”,

complimenting the staff and the quality of the products.

ll Marchese takes its name from the Marchese del Grillo,

a symbol of Rome’s inimitable spirit– a true gentleman,

but always inclined to irony, a lover of tradition, but also

appreciated by those who come from different cultures.

Here, with Chef Daniele Roppo, you’re sure to have a

fantastic dining experience. The culinary philosophy has strong Roman roots and is inspired

by traditional recipes that are lightened according to a contemporary taste, also offering

vegetarian dishes. Quality is always a priority. Ingredients are purchased from local producers.

The amaro and cocktail bar at Il Marchese pays tribute to the elegance of 19th-century

French aristocracy, with precious stuccoes, wallpapers, and velvets. The cocktails here are

perfect for an after-dinner drink or as an aperitif. Each signature drink is crafted with premium

ingredients expertly mixed. Leading the cocktail bar is Fabrizio Valeriani, a bartender with

extensive experience.

FINGER’S ROMA

Via Francesco Carrara, 14 (Flaminio)

Tue-Sun: 7:30pm – 01.30am

Sunday brunch: 1:00pm – 4:00pm

+39 06.3234453

fingersrestaurants.com

If you are looking for a transformative and multicultural

gastronomic experience, Finger’s Roma is for you.

A stone’s throw away from Piazza del Popolo, this

extraordinary restaurant lets you step into a corner of

Japan, take a detour to Brazil, and lose yourself in the

myriad of mingling flavors.

The all-Japanese kitchen staff provides ample choice

for any palate, between classic Japanese dishes and

Brazilian-Japanese fusion; Finger’s offers something for

everybody, sporting a biblical menu counting 77 dishes

to choose from.

Fish, both raw and cooked, abunds, and meat follows

suit – in dozens of iterations and often unusual

combinations with fresh ingredients and homemade

sauces all prepared right in the kitchen at Finger’s.

Creativity is a pillar here, and even “classic” dishes like sashimi, nigiri, tartarers, tacos, gyoza,

and udon, are unlike what you will find in other restaurants.

Every dish is a true work of art; beyond tasting delicious, it also looks spectacular. An example

is their fuming nigiri, as tasty as it is exhuberant.

With great food should come great drink choices, and Finger’s Roma does not disappoint.

Their creative cocktails also follow a Japanese-Brazilian style, taking ingredients from all over

the world; one of their signature drinks is a Lychee Martini with Japanese gin, elderflower

liqueur and lychee juice. Sake lovers will also have their pick of the traditional Japanese drink.

34 ROMEING

ROMEING 35

DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



DRINKING

ITALIAN LANGUAGE SCHOOL

Officially authorized

by the Italian Ministry of Education

EMERALD’S BAR

Via Crescenzio 91C (Prati)

Mon-Sat 12:30pm-Late; Sun 6:30pm-Late

instagram.com/emeraldsroma

In the heart of Rome’s Prati neighborhood, just a short walk

from Vatican city, you’ll find Emerald’s Bar. This iconic spot

has long been a key part of Prati’s nightlife scene, drawing

locals and visitors alike.

From the moment you walk in, Emerald’s transports you into

a world where vintage meets modern, and casual comfort

meets sophistication. The space is adorned with a blend

of antique furniture, cozy nooks, and subtle lighting that

instantly invites you to settle in and savor the ambiance.

The walls are decorated with eclectic art and memorabilia,

creating an intimate atmosphere that feels like an extension

of Rome itself—a city that lives and breathes both history

and innovation.

With sophisticated and impressive menus paired with

beautiful and elaborate interior design, Emeralds is the

perfect place to stop for a casual drink on a weeknight,

gear up for any exciting night out in Rome, or to relax and enjoy their incredible music on the

weekends.

Emerald’s serves bespoke cocktails, gourmet kitchen bites, and an elaborate array of other

beverages that are sure to satisfy every palate. Emerald’s mixologist Ludovico Ruggiano has

curated a cocktail menu including contemporary updates on believed classics, like the Cherry

Fashioned, as well as tropical drinks that will transport you into the equatorial vibe that the

decor dictates.

Rome is no stranger to fantastic bars, but Emerald’s Independent Bar in Prati has carved out

its niche by focusing on what matters: quality, creativity, and authenticity.

INTENSIVE AND

SUPERINTENSIVE COURSES

EXTENSIVE COURSES (PART TIME)

Twice a week (18.00-19.30)

CERTIFICATIONS

Preparations courses for CILS and AIL

certifications of Italian language

ONE TO ONE TUTORIALS

ITALIAN CULTURE COURSES

Art History, Cinema, Cooking

BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL COURSES

ACCOMODATION

Host families

Shared/private apartments

Hotels/B&B

www.leonardo-rome.com

www.scuolaleonardo.com

rome@scuolaleonardo.com

SPORT AND LEISURE TIME

Guided art history visits

Field Trips

Dinners

Film evenings

Join our Community

36 ROMEING

Piazza dell’Orologio, 7

ROMEING 37

DECEMBER 2024

T. 06.6889.2513 | F. 06.6821.9084

DECEMBER 2024



DRINKING

BLACKMARKET HALL

Via de Ciancaleoni, 31 (Monti)

Mon-Tue: 6pm-1.30am; Wed-Thu: 5.30pm-1.30am; Fri-

Sat: 5.30pm-2am;

Sun: 5pm-1am

+39 339 735 1926

blackmarkethall.com

2025

A CAPODANNO

VIVI LA MAGIA DEL TEVERE

Blackmarket Hall, with its romantic lighting, secret rooms,

and uncanny resemblance to a roaring-twenties speakeasy,

welcomes mixology-enthusiasts, foodies, and music-lovers

alike. From its unassuming exterior, you’d never guess

the treasure trove of creativity, cocktails, and culture that

lies within. But step through its doors, and you’ll find a

bohemian haven. With two downstairs garden areas, two

sitting rooms, two bars, and outdoor heaters for the winter,

Blackmarket Hall is incredibly spacious. The space offers a

vast variety of luxuriously curated cocktails with international

food – including vegetarian and vegan options. They host an

extensive aperitivo menu from 5:30pm-8:30pm including

weekly specials and their high level kitchen is open every

night until midnight.

The cocktail menu is a carefully curated selection of innovative concoctions and timeless

classics, often using locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include The Roadhouse Paloma,

a citrussy twist on the classic tequila cocktail, and the Aper-Italico, a tribute to Italy’s iconic

aperitivo culture. The hall doesn’t skimp out on food either. There is a full menu, from hearty

burgers to eclectic small plates to share, that is sure to please.

Live Music plays a central role at Blackmarket Hall. From live jazz nights to indie acoustic sets,

the bar’s stage regularly features talented musicians who set the tone for an unforgettable

evening.

Info & reservation

eventi@bajaroma.it | 06 94368869

38 ROMEING

Baja | Lungotevere Arnaldo da Brescia, 00196 Roma

ROMEING 39

DECEMBER 2024 www.bajaroma.it

DECEMBER 2024



DRINKING

CHARITY CAFÉ

JAZZ & BLUES

Via Panisperna, 68 (Monti)

Tue-Sun 7pm-2am

06.47825881

charitycafe.it

BUKOWSKI’S BAR

Via del Ombrellari, 25 (Prati/Borgo)

Mon-Wed 5pm-2am; Thu-Sun

9am-2am

06.64760105

BukowskisBarRoma

DRINKING

CONVENTICOLA

DEGLI ULTRAMODERNI

Via Di Porta Labicana, 32

(San Lorenzo)

Thurs-Sat 9.30pm-4am

349.672.6683 – 340.7996017

laconventicoladegliultramoderni

ALEXANDERPLATZ JAZZ CLUB

ROME’S OLDEST JAZZ CLUB

Via Ostia, 9 (Prati/Vatican)

Daily 8.30pm – 1.30am (concerts begin at 9.30pm)

06.86781296 (after 6pm)

+39 3499770309 (WhatsApp)

alexanderplatzjazz.com

Just a few streets away from the Ottaviano

metro in Via Ostia sits Rome’s oldest jazz club,

Alexanderplatz, a down to earth venue which

wouldn’t be out of place in the mecca of Jazz:

Greenwich Village, New York. Alexanderplatz

is underground, figuratively as a haven to an

underground musical genre which has thrived

here over the last thirty years, and literally. As you

descend the stairs into the cavernous interior, you’d

be forgiven for forgetting you were near the Vatican

in the heart of Rome. Describing itself as a “cradle

of jazz,” the graffitied walls and photos of legendary performers imbue Alexanderplatz with a

feeling of experimentalism which defined jazz in its heyday.

Many of the most prominent jazz, blues, soul, music artists have performed at the

Alexanderplatz, including Wynton Marsalis, Brad Meldhau, Red Rodney, Freddy Cole, Stefano

Bollani, Fabrizio Bosso, Sarah Jane Morris, Steve Coleman and many more. Founded in 1984

by Giampiero Rubei, Alexanderplatz hosts live concerts from 9.30pm (doors open at 8pm).

This synthesis between the experimental and sophisticated is what makes Alexanderplatz

unique. Where else are you going to sip a cocktail and watch great live jazz in Rome? Entry is

through membership. The program changes regularly, so to keep up to date with upcoming

performances, it’s a good idea to check out their Facebook Page.

Charity Cafe, with its fully

stocked bar specializing

in whiskey, rum and killer

shaken concoctions, is the

jazz and blues aficionado’s

dream. It’s gritty New York

and Roman elegance fused

together with music nights

oozing from Chicago blues to

jazz Harlem standards. 60s

and 70s Classic Rock, Soul

and Folk every Tuesday with

Andy’s Corner; Blues Night

on Wednesday; Jazz Voice

on Thursday; Jazz Night on

Friday, and a groovy Blues

Night on Saturday, all starting

at 10 pm! On Sunday there

is live music with an aperitivo

(6.30pm – 9pm) with snacks,

appetizers and drinks included

in your price.

Vintage finds, bohemian

Roman style décor, a library

of books and pop culture

references will certainly

appeal to your senses. Odes

to Fellini, Bukowski and

even Star Wars, are carefully

placed throughout while

showcasing their grace.

For entrées one might get

prosciutto and hummus, go

for a sandwich, their special

tartares, or an especially

gracious list of salads. The

highlight? Bukowski Bar

offers twelve different kinds

of spritz! And wine lovers,

go for the good stuff with

Bukowski’s wine selection of

Italy’s tastiest.

The Conventicola is a

Burlesque Club, a space

that allows for the strongest

underground artists to take

the stage and perform

their art. Hosting about

a dozen, vastly different

artists each night, along with

the occasional burlesque

performance, this venue is

like nowhere else in Rome.

At Conventicola you’ll get the

change to listen to the best

swing musicians of today’s

scene, admire burlesque

performances from every

corner of the world, and

attend exhibitions of unique

and histrionic personalities.

Don’t miss it!

ROMEING

DECEMBER 2024

41



DECEMBER EVENTS

ART&CULT | MOVIE | NIGHTLIFE | MUSIC | EXHIBITION | SPORT | TASTING

ROMA GOSPEL FESTIVAL

MUSIC FESTIVAL

21 December – 1 January

Auditorium Parco della Musica,

Via Pietro de Coubertin, 30

auditorium.com

The Roma Gospel Festival is held annually at the Auditorium Parco della Musica, from December

21 to January 1. The festival features the best American choirs and gospel groups and is the

largest of its kind in Europe. With such a venue, the goal to involve all listeners and have them

participate in the shows is easily achievable. So don’t hesitate to wave, sing along, or simply clap

with everyone else for a unique and encompassing experience.

The event kicks off on December 21 and 22 with Vincent Bohanan & Sound of Victory followed

by the Florida Inspirational Singers on December 23, known for a repertoire that bridges the

soulful sounds of the southern US tradition with more contemporary elements of this genre.

On Christmas Day, there are two performances by the Harlem Gospel Choir, the most famous

and long-standing American gospel choir, which has been performing since 1986 to raise funds

for charitable causes.

From December 26 to 27, the stage will feature Meachum Clarke & True Purpose, a leading

artist in contemporary gospel with more than thirty years of experience. On December 28, Gospel

Voices Family will take the stage, and on December 29, Marquis Dolford & The Capital Gospel

Group.

The festival will also feature Kaylah Harvey and The Bronx Gospel Choir (December 30-31),

a highly acclaimed group recognized as one of the best new Gospel ensembles in the United

States. The grand finale of the 2024 edition, however, will take place on January 1st, with

a performance by the extraordinary New York Voices. This Grammy-winning vocal group is

renowned for their unique blend of jazz, pop, and swing, promising a memorable conclusion to

this year’s festival.

CHRISTMAS WORLD

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE

Until 6 January 2025

Villa Borghese

Entry fee: from €15.60

christmasworld.net

Are you ready to embark on a virtual journey

through the most typical Christmas atmospheres

around the world? After last year’s success, the

Christmas World at Villa Borghese is returning

for another round of holiday joy. With replicas of

cities around the world, musical performances,

a carousel, a chocolate factory and even a

model of Santa’s house, there’s something for

every member of the family. And if that wasn’t

enough, each city replica will also have its own

food court for your tasting pleasure.

TRAME DI LUCE LIGHT

ART FESTIVAL

LIGHT ART FESTIVAL

Until 6 January 2025

Via Corsini, 25 (Trastevere)

Entry fee: from €21

tramediluce.it

EVENTS

ART | MOVIE | NIGHTLIFE | MUSIC

Get the best of both worlds — that is,

stunning lights and sweeping musical scores

— at Trame di Luce, an immersive sensory

exhibition at the Botanical Garden of Rome.

You can walk through greenery enhanced by

supernatural light displays and can even grab

a bite to eat at their gourmet food court, Taste

of Lights. Trame di Luce offers not only an

event but an experience, a delightful escape

where visitors can enjoy the joyous spirit of the

holiday season.

42 ROMEING

ROMEING 43

DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



EVENTS

ART | MOVIE | NIGHTLIFE | MUSIC

EVENTS

ART | MOVIE | NIGHTLIFE | MUSIC

PIÙ LIBRI PIÙ LIBERI

PUBLISHING FAIR

4-8 December

La Nuvola, Viale Asia, 40/44 (EUR)

Entry fee: from €10

plpl.it

Più Libri Più Liberi (meaning: more books

more freedom) is the Roman fair dedicated to

independent publishing: five days to discover

the latest releases and catalogs from over

500 publishers, meet authors, enjoy musical

performances, readings, and debates. Whether

you’re a devoted reader seeking literary

treasures or a professional navigating the

dynamic publishing landscape, this event is an

unmissable opportunity.

NATALE AUDITORIUM

MUSIC - THEATRE

8 December - 6 January 2025

Auditorium Parco della Musica

auditorium.com

From December 8th to January 6th, the

Auditorium Parco Della Musica will be

celebrating Christmas with a festive program

sure to get you into the holiday spirit. The

schedule is packed with concerts, shows,

a gospel festival, and exhibitions, ensuring

something for everyone. The lineup includes

pop, jazz, and rock concerts, plus the annual

Roma Gospel Festival, one of the most

important gospel events in Europe. Featuring

top gospel choirs from the United States,

it brings a special kind of magic with its

inclusive, joyful atmosphere.

MUSEI IN MUSICA

ART

7 December

Several locations

Entry fee: €1

On Saturday, December 7, the 14th edition of

Musei in Musica will take place. Rome’s city

museums will be open to everyone at night,

from 8pm to 2am, with an entry ticket costing

only 1 euro, or free for holders of the Roma

MIC Card. Besides enjoying the permanent

collections and temporary exhibits, visitors

can also attend a variety of live concerts and

shows. Among the any museums and exhibition

spaces in Rome partaking in the event, are:

Capitoline Museums, Centrale Montemartini,

Mercati di Traiano – Musei dei Fori Imperiali,

Museo dell’Ara Pacis, Museo di Roma, Museo

Napoleonico, Museo di Roma in Trastevere,

Musei di Villa Torlonia, Museo Carlo Bilotti,

Galleria d’Arte Moderna and many others.

100 PRESEPI IN VATICANO

NATIVITY SCENES

8 December – 6 January 2025

St. Peter’s square

Entry fee: Free

100presepi.va

Depictions of the birth of Jesus Christ can be

found all over the world during Christmastime,

but Italians have a special pride in their

nativity scenes, known as presepi. This pride

is beautifully showcased in an exhibit at the

Colonnade of Piazza San Pietro in the holy city

of the Vatican. From over 300 submissions

from different countries, only 100 of the most

stunning presepi are selected for display.

Whether you’re a craftsman or simply an

admirer of artistry, you’re invited to come and

see these masterpieces for yourself.

44

ROMEING

DECEMBER 2024



NEW YEAR’S EVE IN ROME

i

Les Etoiles Restaurant and Roof Garden

Via Giovanni Vitelleschi, 34 (Prati)

------------------------------------------------------------------

GALA DINNER MENU AT LES ETOILES RESTAURANT

€470 (wines excluded) – €540 (Front Row View)

MENU LIGHT DINNER AT SALA MICHELANGELO / TERRAZZA BEL RESPIRO

€250 (wines excluded)

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

Call/Text/Whatsapp +39.3756441773

New Year’s Eve in Rome

Planning to spend New Year in Rome? It’s always a bit difficult to decide what

to do on New Year’s Eve in Rome. Whether you prefer to ring in the New Year in

a crowded club, in one of the major piazzas in Rome, or at home with a glass of

champagne and some friends, we have many suggestions to make your New Year’s

in Rome unforgettable.

1

CHECK OUT THE BEST PARTIES FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE IN ROME

WWW.ROMEING.IT/NEWYEARSEVEROME/

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i

Hotel Marriott

Via Veneto, 191 (Barberini)

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NYE DINNER AT FLORA ROOFTOP TERRACE

€320 (wines excluded)

NYE DINNER AT FLORA RESTAURANT

€160 (wines excluded)

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

Call/Text/Whatsapp +39.3756441773

Il Marchese

Via di Ripetta, 162 (centro storico)

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GRAND DINNER + MIDNIGHT TOAST (20:30-00:30): €180

AFTER DINNER TABLE + CHAMPAGNE (00:30-3:00): €300

AFTER DINNER ENTRANCE WITH 2 DRINKS: €60

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

Email: festivita@ilmarcheseroma.it

46 ROMEING

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DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



NEW YEAR’S EVE IN ROME

NEW YEAR’S EVE IN ROME

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Palazzo Velabro

Via del Velabro, 16 (Piazza Venezia/Circo Massimo)

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NYE DINNER AT APICIO 16 RESTAURANT: €190

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

Email: sales@palazzovelabro.it

Call: +39 0697619197

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New Year’s Eve @ Shari Vari

Via di Torre Argentina, 78 (Centro Storico)

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GALA & VIP DINNER: €180-250

BUFFET DINNER: €80

AFTER DINNER WITH RESERVED TABLE : €60-100

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

Call/Text/Whatsapp +39.3756441773

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NYE Dinner & Party at Chorus Cafè

Via della Conciliazione, 4 (Vatican)

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DINNER + PARTY: €225

PARTY: €50

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

Call/Text/Whatsapp +39.3756441773

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NEW YEAR DINNER & PARTY at Alcazar Live

Via Cardinale Merry Del Val , 14 (Trastevere)

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DINNER + PARTY: €77

PARTY: €23

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

www.alcazarlive.it/

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Campocori Restaurant at Chapter Roma

Via di S. Maria De’ Calderari, 47 (Jewish Ghetto)

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DINNER

€230 (drinks excluded) or €340 (drinks included)

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

Email: campocori@chapter-roma.com

Call: +39 0689935351

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NYE at Alexander Platz Jazz Club

with Rosalia de Souza

Via Ostia, 9 (Vatican)

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DINNER & CONCERT: €120

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

prenotazioni.alexanderplatz@gmail.com

48 ROMEING

ROMEING 49

DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



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The Race Club Speakeasy Rome

Via Labicana, 52 (Colosseum)

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TWO TIME SLOTS AVAILABLE:

from 10pm to 12.30am or from 12.30am to 3am

€50 - Included: Welcome Shot + n.2 Classic or Signature Cocktails +

Toast with Prosecco + Christmas sweets + membership card

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

Web: theraceclubspeakeasyroma.com

Call: +39.3282741048 (Whatsapp)

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Masa Rooftop

Via di S. Maria Maggiore, 143

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NYE TASTING MENU

€195 (drinks excluded)

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

Email: info@masarooftop.it

Christmas &

New Year's Eve

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Baja

Lungotevere Arnaldo da Brescia (Popolo)

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FOUR COURSES DINNER + OPEN BAR

€200/220 (wines excluded)

FOR INFO & BOOKING:

Email: eventi@bajaroma.it

Call: +39 3775518240

Discover

our menu

Palazzo Velabro | Apicio16

Via del Velabro, 16 - Roma

06 9761 9197

sales@palazzovelabro.it

50 ROMEING

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DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



Best Concerts in Rome

in December 2024

ORTO BOTANICO DI ROMA

Fiorella Mannoia

When: December 5 & 22

Where: Auditorium Parco della Musica

(Via Pietro de Coubertin, 30)

Tickets: from €49

Max Gazzè

When: December 6

Where: Auditorium Parco della Musica

(Via Pietro de Coubertin, 30)

Tickets: from €38

Ditonellapiaga

When: December 7

Where: Hacienda

(Via dei Cluniacensi ,68)

Tickets: : €26

Jack Savoretti

When: December 19

Where: Auditorium Conciliazione

(Via Della Conciliazione 4)

Tickets: from €40.95

Antonello Venditti

When: December 20 & 22

Where: Palazzo dello Sport

(Piazzale Pier Luigi Nervi, 1)

Tickets: from €49

Harlem Gospel Choir

When: December 25

Where: Auditorium Parco della Musica

(Via Pietro de Coubertin, 30)

Tickets: from €35

DAL 30 NOVEMBRE 2024

The Best of Disney

Music

When: December 8

Where: Auditorium Conciliazione

(Via Della Conciliazione 4)

Tickets: from €38

Samuele Bersani

When: December 16

Where: Auditorium Conciliazione

(Via Della Conciliazione 4)

Tickets: from €39

The Bronx Gospel Choir

When: December 30 & 31

Where: Auditorium Parco della Musica

(Viale Pietro de Coubertin, 30)

Tickets: €30 & 40

Massimo Ranieri

When: December 31

Where: Eur Convention Center La

Nuvola - Auditorium, (Viale Asia, 40-44)

Tickets: from €79

IMMERGITI NELL’INCANTO

DEL NUOVO SPETTACOLO DI LUCI

BIGLIETTI SU TRAMEDILUCE.IT

PRODUCERS

PATROCINIO

ISTITUZIONI MEDIA PARTNER MOBILITY PARTNER

52 ROMEING

ROMEING 53

DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



ART &

CULT

GUERCINO. THE

LUDOVISI ERA IN

ROME AT SCUDERIE

DEL QUIRINALE

p

Paola Morotti

Until 26 January 2025

Scuderie del Quirinale

Opening times: From 10am to 8pm (last

admission at 7pm)

Tickets: Full €17.50, Reduced €15.50

scuderiequirinale.it

From October 31 to January 26, the Scuderie

del Quirinale will celebrate the Jubilee Year in

Rome with a remarkable exhibition honoring

Guercino’s art and the historical legacy of the

papal Ludovisi family.

Showcasing 121 works coming from

sixty-eight different institutions, the exhibit

highlights the artistic production of 1616 to

1625, with a particular focus on the biennial

(1621 to 1623) brief pontificate of Alessandro

Ludovisi, also known as Pope Gregory XV.

Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, known

as Guercino, was born in Cento, Emilia

Romagna, in 1591. A self-taught painter, he

connected with the Ludovisi family through

Father Mirandola in Bologna. His nickname,

“Guercino,” meaning “the little squinter,”

refers to a slight squint caused by a childhood

fright, which, despite its origin, did not affect

his extraordinary ability to perceive color and

create dramatic scenes on canvas.

The exhibition, therefore, has at its center

Guercino, Pope Gregory XV’s favorite artist,

and develops all its themes through dialogues

GUERCINO. THE LUDOVISI ERA IN ROME AT SCUDERIE DEL QUIRINALE

between masterpieces and artists, evoking

episodes of rivalry, exchange, and mutual

influence.

In the rooms, besides Guercino, visitors will

find, among others, Guido Reni, Domenichino,

Lanfranco, Annibale and Ludovico Carracci,

Pietro da Cortona, Padovanino, Van Dyck,

Poussin, and Bernini. From the comparisons

in the exhibition it will become clear how

Guercino’s artistic vision, ignited by the refined

pursuit of color, became the perfect balancing

point for the rise of the Ludovisi family and the

assertion of their political and cultural power.

On the occasion of the exhibition, the Casino

di Villa Ludovisi, the dynasty landmark villa,

which normally is not accessible to the public,

will be open to visitors with a guide from the

Scuderie del Quirinale. The tours, each led

by an art historian, will last approximately

30 minutes and are scheduled to run every

half hour on weekends and holidays starting

9 November (excluding 25 December and 1

January) from 10 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm

to 4 pm.

54 ROMEING

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DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



THIS MONTH IN

MUSEUMS

CINECITTA’ STUDIOS

Via Tuscolana 1055

Metro Cinecittà

FRENCH ACADEMY IN

ROME. VILLA MEDICI

Viale Trinità dei Monti, 1

Metro Spagna. Bus 117 from

Termini Station

CHIOSTRO DEL

BRAMANTE

Arco della Pace, 5

Bus 64 from Termini Station

GALLERIA NAZIONALE

D’ARTE MODERNA E

CONTEMPORANEA

Viale delle Belle Arti, 131

Metro Flaminio

MAXXI

Via Guido Reni, 4/a

Bus 2 from Flaminio Station

MUSEO STORICO DELLA

FANTERIA

Piazza Santa Croce in

Gerusalemme, 7

Metro San Giovanni

4 CINECITTA’ SHOWS OFF

c Everyday except Tuesday

10am-6pm

€ entry fee €7-15 (exhibition +

outdoor set visit)

i cinecittasimostra.it

Lungotevere in Augusta

Metro Flaminio

4

a

c

1

entry fee €8,5-12

€ arapacis.it

i

56

ARA PACIS

FRANCO FONTANA.

RETROSPECTIVE

FROM 13 DECEMBER

Everyday 9.30am-7.30pm

1

WWW.ROMEING.IT/EXHIBITIONS-IN-ROME

a 1

4 THE SIREN SONG

a 1 TILL 13 JANUARY 2025

c Mon-Sun 10am-7pm (closed

on Tuesday)

a 1 TILL 6 JANUARY 2025

€ entry fee €6-8

c Mon-Fri 10am-7pm; Sat-Sun

i villamedici.it

10am-8pm

€ Mon-Fri €15; Sat-Sun €18

i chiostrodelbramante.it

ACCADEMIA NAZIONALE COLOSSEO

DI SAN LUCA

Piazza del Colosseo

piazza dell’Accademia di San Metro Colosseo

Luca, 77, Metro Barberini

a 1

4 ALIGHIERO E BOETTI

RADDOPPIARE

DIMEZZANDO

a 1 TILL 15 FEBRUARY 2025

c Tue-Fri 3pm-7pm; Sat

10am-7pm

€ free entrance i

accademiasanluca.it

4 event c time € price i site

4 EMOTION.

4 MAXXI BVLGARI PRIZE

CONTEMPORARY ART

4 TIME IS OUT OF JOINT

2024

4 MIRÓ – IL COSTRUTTORE

c Tue-Sun 9am-7pm a

TELLS THE STORY OF

1 TILL 2 MARCH 2025

DI SOGNI

€ entry fee €5-10 c Tue-Sun 11am-7pm

EMOTIONS

TILL 23 FEBRUARY 2025

i lagallerianazionale.com €

a

entry fee €9-12

1 Mon-Fri 9.30am-7.30pm;

i fondazionemaxxi.it c

Sat-Dom 9.30am-8.30pm

€ entry fee €13-15

i navigaresrl.com/

4 ARTISTA ALLA GNAM - 4 DILLER SCOFIDIO + 4 LIGABUE - I MISTERI DI

EMILIO ISGRÒ

RENFRO:

UNA MENTE

TILL 31 DECEMBER

RESTLESS ARCHITECTURE a 1 TILL 12 JANUARY 2025

c Tue-Sun 9am-7pm a c Mon-Fri 9.30am-7.30pm;

€ entry fee €5-10

1 TILL 16 MARCH 2025

c Tue-Sun 11am-7pm

Sat-Dom 9.30am-8.30pm

i lagallerianazionale.com

€ entry fee €13-15

4 PENELOPE

€ entry fee €9-12

i navigaresrl.com/

a 1 TILL 12 JANUARY 2025

i fondazionemaxxi.it

c Everyday 9am-6.30pm

€ Entry to the exhibition is

included in the Colosseum

tickets

i parcocolosseo.it

ROMEING date

ROMEING 57

DECEMBER 2024

DECEMBER 2024



THIS MONTH IN

MUSEUMS

MUSEI DI VILLA

TORLONIA - CASINO DEI

PRINCIPI

Via Nomentana, 70

Bus 36 from Termini Station

MUSEO DI ROMA IN

TRASTEVERE

Piazza di Sant’Egidio, 1/b

Bus H from Termini Station

MUSEO DI ROMA

PALAZZO BRASCHI

Via del Corso, 320

Metro Spagna/Barberini

MUSEI CAPITOLINI PALAZZO DELLE

ESPOSIZIONI

Piazza del Campidoglio, 1

Metro Colosseo Via Nazionale, 194

Metro Repubblica

LA VACCHERIA

Via Giovanni l’Eltore, 35

Metro Eur Palasport

4 NIKI BERLINGUER. LA

SIGNORA DEGLI ARAZZI

a 1 TILL 6 APRIL 2025

c Mon-Fri 9am-7pm

€ entry fee €9-11 (Casina delle

Civette + Casino Nobile +

Exhibitions)

i museivillatorlonia.it

TERME DI DIOCLEZIANO

Piazza della Repubblica

Metro Repubblica

4 TONY CRAGG: INFINITE

FORMS AND BOUNDLESS

BEAUTY

a 1 TILL 4 MAY 2025

c Tue-Sun 9.30am-7pm

€ entry fee €8

museonazionaleromano.

i beniculturali.it/

58

1

4 DINO IGNANI. 80’S DARK

ROME

a 1 TILL 12 JANUARY 2025

c Tue-Sun 10am-8pm

€ entry fee €7,5-9,5

i museodiromaintrastevere.it

WWW.ROMEING.IT/EXHIBITIONS-IN-ROME

a 1

PALAZZO BONAPARTE

Piazza Venezia, 5

Metro Colosseo

4 BOTERO

a

c

1

€ i

TILL 19 JANUARY 2025

Everyday 10am-8pm

entry fee €18,50

mostrepalazzobonaparte.it

4 event c time € price i site

4

a

c

1

i

4

a

c

1

i

L’INCANTO DELLA

BELLEZZA

TILL 12 JANUARY 2025

Tue-Sun 10am-7pm

entry fee €7,5-11

museodiroma.it

ROMA PITTRICE

ARTISTE AL LAVORO TRA

XVI E XVIII SECOLO

TILL 23 MARCH 2025

Tue-Sun 10am-7pm

entry fee €7,5-11

museodiroma.it

4 THE COLOSSUS OF

CONSTANTINE

a 1 TILL 31 DECEMBER 2025

c Everyday 9.30am-6.30pm

€ free entrance

i museicapitolini.org

4 TIZIANO, LOTTO, CRIVELLI

E GUERCINO. CAPOLAVORI

DELLA PINACOTECA DI

ANCONA

a 1 TILL 30 MARCH 2025

c Everyday 9.30am-7.30pm

€ entry fee €13

i museicapitolini.org

4 L’ULTIMO MERAVIGLIOSO 4 VIAGGIO NELLA POP

MINUTO - PIETRO RUFFO ART: A NEW WAY TO LOVE

a 1 TILL 16 FEBRUARY 2025

THINGS

c Tue-Sun 10am-8pm a 1 TILL 31 MARCH 2025

€ entry fee €10-12,50 c Tue – Thu 9am-1pm; Fri –

i palazzoesposizioniroma.it Sun 9am-7pm

i free entrance

SCUDERIE DEL

QUIRINALE

Via XXIV Maggio 16

Metro Repubblica

4 LUIGI BILLI

FLASHBACK ARTWORKS

1992-2015

a 1 TILL 1 DECEMBER

c Tue-Sun 10am-8pm

€ entry fee €10-12,50 4 GUERCINO. THE LUDOVISI

i palazzoesposizioniroma.it

ERA

a 1 TILL 26 JANUARY 2025

c Everyday from 10am to 8pm

€ entry fee €17.50

i scuderiequirinale.it

ROMEING date

ROMEING 59

DECEMBER 2024

DECEMBER 2024



WHAT TO DO IN FLORENCE THIS CHRISTMAS 2024

FLORENCE

Christmas markets

A must in the holidays is to go search for the

perfect present or to have the most delicious treat

at the incredible Christmas Markets. With wooden

cottages that serve as stands offering a great

variety of delicacies, baked goods, ornaments, and

clothing from all over, you cannot miss out on this

activity. Held all throughout Florence in December,

and with a permanent one in Santa Croce staying

until December 22nd.

What To Do In Florence This Christmas 2024

p

Daniela Basila

Chilly wind, people with scarves and gloves, hot chocolate cravings and

beautiful lights decorating the city can only mean one thing… The Christmas

season has officially arrived in Florence! And we are going to tell you

all about how to enjoy it.

Florence Christmas trees

The Christmas Trees will be among the enchanting

illuminations in the Tuscan capital. Following their

ceremonial lighting on December 8th, you can

enjoy their festive glow throughout the city. The

main tree will be in Piazza del Duomo, and others

traditionally illuminate locations such as Palazzo

Vecchio, Piazza della Repubblcia and Piazzale

Michelangelo.

Religious celebrations

For Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the city

churches will offer mass on both occasions, even

the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral will have its

own celebrated by the Cardinal of Florence. The

Santa Croce Cathedral will host a Christmas Eve

vigil as well as Christmas Day services.

Read about all the things to explore and do in Florence on

romeing.it/florence

60 ROMEING

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DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



WHAT TO DO IN FLORENCE THIS CHRISTMAS 2024

Christmas plays and Concerts

Experience the magic of Christmas at the

theater! This year on Christmas Eve the

Orchestra della Toscana will present their

Christmas Concert at Teatro Verdi. And on

January 2nd, don’t miss The Nutcracker –

tickets are available online at the Teatro Verdi

ticket office or at Ticketone.it.

The Mascarade Opera Foundation presents

its own Christmas Concert at the Church of

Ognissanti on December 12th, as does the

Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, on

December 21st.

On December 29th and 30th, A Christmas

Carol: Il Musical will be performed at Teatro

Cartiere Carrara. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge

through his adventure through tales of

Christmases past, present, and future!

Florence Lights Up

From December 7 to January 7, Florence

shines brightly with Florence Lights Up, a

dazzling experience that makes the holiday

season truly enchanting.

The Ponte Vecchio transforms into a

luminous canvas through video mapping,

while Palazzo Vecchio and the Church of

San Paolino will host artistic projections

highlighting the themes and values of the

#EnjoyRespectFirenze campaign. In Piazza

Santa Maria Novella, lights and installations

create a captivating atmosphere, and the

Medici Garden at Palazzo Medici Riccardi

comes alive with glowing displays among

trees and statues, featuring a special

Christmas tree.

ONLINE MEDICAL

CONSULTATION

62 ROMEING

ROMEING 63

DECEMBER 2024 DECEMBER 2024



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