Against this dazzling backdrop, the first pilgrims for the Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee, which begins on Christmas Eve, have the unique opportunity to enjoy the Eternal City’s many Christmas ...

The figurines were commissioned in 1292 by Pope Nicholas IV, the first Franciscan pope, who was inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, the creator of the first living nativity in Greccio, Italy, in 1223.

VATICAN CITY — Well before midnight, pilgrims are massing in the great square in front of St. Peter’s Basilica. Some swirl around the huge Christmas tree, brought from Austria. Others gather ...

Against this dazzling backdrop, the first pilgrims for the Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee, ... A building is decorated festively for Christmas in Rome, Italy, Dec. 17, 2024.