Italian Christmas Culture

We ventured to downtown Catania last night to experience the Christmas culture. I thought we would see a nativity scene and at least a baby Jesus in this Christian dominated society.  We couldn’t find either!  We met some friends at Elephant Square right outside the City Duomo, Saint Agatha Cathedral. We arrived just at the right time, the Duomo was open and the lights were on and the majestic pipe organ filed the air with amazing music, just not Christmas music. There were no decorations at all inside or outside the Duomo; it was exactly like it looked last summer in the evening.

St. Agatha's pipe organ and view down the street outside.

We walked up the main street that just happens to be a walking street closed off to traffic all seasons.  It was packed with people purchasing gifts; we saw wrapped gifts and Christmas bags with Christmas messages. There is a certain street that crosses the main street Etnea that was set up as Christmas Alley.  All kinds of Italian hand made gifts with all local vendors were set up to sell their crafts.  Beautiful art work and objects that we hadn’t seen any other time.  Clearly it was gift-giving season in Catania!

Lots of people on the street, one Christmas tree of lights.

How about this 2X4 Christmas tree? This made me think of my dad!

Our favorite vendor on Christmas street!

Christmas Alley, wooden trees seem to be very popular! How about that little Italian Man!

Ceramic villages with nativity scene are available to purchase.

All kinds of art work, music and performers all along the street.

This may take another trip with a little more direction to find the nativity!