"Tanti Auguri di Buon Natale"
Immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays with our exclusive collection of Italian Christmas products. From beautifully handcrafted ornaments and intricate nativity scenes to elegant decor and festive tableware, each piece reflects the rich traditions and unparalleled craftsmanship of Italy. Designed to bring warmth and sophistication to your celebrations, our curated selection adds a touch of timeless elegance to your holiday season. Experience the joy and splendor of an Italian Christmas, where tradition and artistry come together to create unforgettable memories.
Christmas in Italy is an important time for families to get together. It is a quiet period, much less commercialised than in some other parts of the world. There is obviously a religious aspect but, as a religious festival, Christmas is less important than Easter in the Italian Catholic Church. The Christmas period starts on the 8th December and continues until the 6th January. The 8th of December is the day of the 'Immacolata Concezione', the 'Immaculate Conception', which celebrates the birth of Mary, the mother of Jesus. The 6th of January, 'Epifania' , the 'Epiphany', celebrates the arrival of the Three Kings into the presence of the baby Jesus, lying in his manger.
The Catholic Church also celebrates the 'Novena', nine days of prayer leading up to the 8th of December, which is a feast day.While many people focus their attention on Christmas Day itself, in Italy, it is Christmas Eve which is more important. 'La Virgilia', starts with an extremely long lunch, 'La Festa dei sette pesci', the Feast of the Seven Fishes. This is followed by church, and the celebration of Midnight Mass.'Natale', Christmas Day, along with 'Il Giorno di Santo Stefano', Boxing Day, are both quieter days, spent at home with family. The giving of gifts on Christmas Day is also far more limited than some other cultures, with children receiving gifts also on 5th January.
Italian presepi, or nativity scenes, are a cherished Christmas tradition that dates back to the 13th century, attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi. These intricate displays depict the birth of Jesus, featuring figurines of the Holy Family, shepherds, angels, and various townsfolk, often set in detailed, miniature landscapes. Each region of Italy infuses its own cultural elements and craftsmanship, from the elaborate and artistic presepi of Naples, known for their detailed and vibrant figures, to the simpler, rustic versions found in rural areas. These scenes are not only a religious symbol but also a reflection of Italian artistry and community spirit during the festive season.
Probably the most famous 'Presepe' of all is the 'Presepe Cuciniello', a renowned and elaborate nativity scene housed in the Museo Nazionale di San Martino in Naples, Italy. Named after its creator, Michele Cuciniello, this extraordinary presepe was completed in the 19th century and is celebrated for its intricate detail and vivid portrayal of 18th-century Neapolitan life. The scene includes over 800 figures, encompassing not just the Holy Family and the traditional nativity characters, but also an array of everyday people, animals, and detailed architectural elements that bring the bustling atmosphere of historical Naples to life. The Presepe Cuciniello is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and a testament to Naples' rich tradition of nativity scene artistry.
Today, the centre of this activity is Via San Gregorio Armeno in Naples. It has been nicknamed 'Christmas Alley', because the whole area is full of artisans, hand-making ever more elaborate scenes to house every conceivable kind of figure, complete with working models, water features and atmospheric lighting. This narrow, cobblestone street is lined with workshops and stalls where artisans create and sell intricately detailed figures and scenes year-round. The tradition dates back centuries, with each craftsman infusing their unique style and creativity into their work. During the Christmas season, San Gregorio Armeno becomes especially lively, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire and purchase these exquisite handmade pieces. The street is a living testament to Naples' enduring cultural heritage and its deep-rooted connection to the art of presepi.
Some of these wonderful creations are true works of art, such as the work of Giuseppe Ercolano, and they represent a uniquely Italian celebration of the Christmas story. Every Christmas, the Vatican displays an exhibition of 100 Presepi in St Peter's Square. These creations come from Rome, all over Italy as well as the rest of the world. In addition to presepi, artisans from all over Italy create a vast array of beautiful Christmas decorations from glass, ceramics and wood.The Christmas period draws to an end with the visit of the 'Befana', the Witch, on the night of 5th January. This old hag flies around Italy on her broomstick, dressed in a black shawl covered in soot, delivering presents and sweets to children that have been good, and lumps of coal to those that haven't!
