Italy Christmas Decorations Do They Use

Prev Article Next Article

The Christmas season is a magical time in Italy — the twinkling lights, the smell of pine needles, and the decorations that bring cheer to the season. For centuries, Italian families have been decorating their homes with festive trimmings in preparation for the holiday. From traditional nativity sets to sparkling stars and ornate presepi figures, Italy’s Christmas decorations are as varied as its culture.

Whether you’re shopping for your own holiday decorations or just curious about how Italians prepare for the season, it helps to understand the symbolism and history behind some of these classic decorations. Here’s a closer look at the five most popular Italian Christmas decorations and how they’re used in Italian households during the holiday season.

The Presepe, also known as a nativity scene, is probably the most beloved Italian Christmas decoration. The tradition of creating these dioramas dates back to the 13th century, and today they are still an integral part of the Italian Christmas celebration. Presepi can be found in homes, churches, and public squares throughout Italy and often feature a variety of characters, from angels and shepherds to animals and wise men. Traditionally, the figures are made of terracotta, but they can also be crafted from paper, wood, or even fabric.

Another beloved Italian Christmas decoration is the stella, or star. This symbol of hope and joy has been linked to the holiday season since ancient times. In Italy, stars are hung on windows and doors to ward off evil spirits and protect the home from misfortune. As a result, it’s not uncommon to see stars of all shapes and sizes adorning Italian homes during the holiday season.

Other popular Italian Christmas decorations include luminarie, which are strings of multi-colored lights that are hung in windows and doorways; festoni, which are brightly colored garlands that are used to decorate walls and ceilings; and ghirlande, which are wreaths made from dried flowers, fruit, and foliage. Finally, many Italian families also use traditional Christmas ornaments like angels, snowflakes, and Santas to decorate their trees.

No matter which type of decoration you’re looking for, Italy offers a wide range of festive options to choose from. Whether it’s a classic presepe or a modern stella, a handmade ornament or a string of luminarie, each piece is sure to bring a touch of Italian style and holiday cheer to your home this season.

Italian Christmas Traditions Welcome To Italy