Christmas 2025 in St Peter's Square speaks the languages of Alpine nature, centuries-old Campania tradition and Central American spirituality. The places of origin of the protagonists who are adorning the heart of Christianity for the upcoming festivities have been made official: a majestic red fir tree from Alto Adige and two exceptional Nativities, one from the Diocese of Nocera Inferiore-Sarno and the other from Costa Rica.
The Lagundo Spruce: a 27-metre green giant
Soaring and imposing, the Christmas tree in St Peter's Square comes this year from the Val d'Ultimo, in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano. It is a spruce tree of about 27 metres, donated thanks to the collaboration between the municipalities of Lagundo e Last.
The tree, symbol of life being reborn, is not alone: together with the giant one destined for the square, the South Tyrolean communities brought numerous smaller fir trees to the Vatican, destined to decorate the offices and palaces of the Holy See, bringing the scent of the alpine forests right inside the Leonine walls.
The Crib of Campania: between early Christian history and flavours of the Agro
The Nativity scene located under the Vatican obelisk is a homage to the land of Campania, curated by the Diocese of Nocera Inferiore-Sarno. The work is a sophisticated blend of sacred architecture and everyday life. The structure in fact recalls the Early Christian Baptistery of Nocera Superiore, the Helvius fountain in Sant'Egidio del Monte Albino and the typical courtyards of Agro Nocerino.
The characters, realised in the style of the prestigious 18th-century Neapolitan school, narrate a spirituality rooted in the territory:
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Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori: depicted at the harpsichord while intoning the famous “You come down from the stars”.
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Charismatic figures: the faces of Don Enrico Smaldone (founder of Città dei Ragazzi) and volunteer Alfonso Russo, symbols of education and service.
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Local excellence: Among the gifts brought to the Child by a shepherdess are typical local products, from San Marzano tomatoes and Nocerino onions to artichokes and walnuts.
Particular emphasis is given to the theme of JubileeA fisherman with a large anchor points to the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica, while a comet star, also in the shape of an anchor, dominates the scene, symbolising hope in Christ.
In the Paul VI Hall: joy and the value of life from Costa Rica
Inside the Paul VI Hall is the international nativity scene entitled “Nacimiento Gaudium”. Created by Costa Rican artist Paula Sáenz Soto, the work is not only a message of universal peace, but also a strong appeal for the protection of human life from conception, the heart of the spiritual mission of the Central American country.
With this combination of elements - the strength of South Tyrolean fir trees, the historical and artisanal richness of Campania and the ethical sensitivity of Costa Rica - Christmas 2025 promises to be a mosaic of faith and beauty ready to welcome the faithful from all over the world.
