Full Breakdown
Vatican Unveils Christmas Tree and Nativity Scene in St. Peter’s Square
12/16/2025, 12:09:47 AM
Christmas Celebrations in Vatican City
On December 15, 2025, the Vatican City State unveiled its Christmas tree and Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square, marking the beginning of the holiday season. The centerpiece of the display is an 80-foot Norway spruce sourced from Val d’Ultimo in South Tyrol, Italy. Accompanying the tree are 40 smaller trees designated for various Vatican offices. In a move towards environmental sustainability, the main tree will be repurposed to produce essential oils after the holiday season, with the remaining wood donated to charity.
The Nativity scene, measuring 56 feet in length and nearly 40 feet wide, was created by the Diocese of Nocera Inferiore-Sarno. It features life-size figures crafted by artisan Federico Iaccarino and incorporates elements of early Christian art, including a replica of the sixth-century baptistery from St. Mary Major Basilica. The scene also showcases the Helvius Fountain, an ancient Roman structure, and includes characters inspired by local saints, such as St. Alphonsus Maria de Liguori and Servant of God Don Enrico Smaldone.
Ceremony and Participants
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Sister Raffaella Petrini, president of the Governorate of Vatican City State, alongside Archbishop Emilio Nappa and lawyer Giuseppe Puglisi-Alibrandi. The event featured performances by a band, chorus, and dancers in traditional costumes from South Tyrol. Notable attendees included Bishop Ivo Muser of Bolzano-Bressanone and the mayors of Lagundo and Ultimo. Earlier in the day, Pope Leo XIV met with delegations from the regions that contributed to the decorations.
Costa Rican Nativity Scene
In addition to the main display, a Nativity scene titled “Nacimiento Gaudium” was presented, created by Costa Rican artist Paula Sáenz Soto. This installation features a pregnant Virgin Mary and 28,000 colored ribbons symbolizing lives saved from abortion through Catholic support. The scene will be displayed in the Paul VI Audience Hall and includes interchangeable representations of the Virgin Mary, reflecting both her pregnancy and adoration of the newborn Jesus.
Official Statements and Reflections
Pope Leo XIV emphasized the significance of the Nativity scene and Christmas tree as symbols of faith and hope. He called for prayers for peace and fraternity, urging the elimination of hatred from hearts. The Pope remarked, “As we contemplate them in our homes, parishes and town squares, let us ask the Lord to renew in us the gift of peace and fraternity.” He also highlighted the importance of the Nativity scene in reminding individuals of God's closeness to humanity.
Conclusion and Future Events
The Nativity scene and Christmas tree will remain in St. Peter’s Square until January 11, 2026, the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. The Vatican's Christmas celebrations will also include a Christmas Eve Mass and the traditional Urbi et Orbi address by the Pope on Christmas Day. The events serve as a reminder of the enduring message of hope and salvation during the holiday season.
