Rome's Fabulous Festivals

English: View from the Piazza del Campidoglio. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Roberta Stuart

The Romans have never been a crowd that need much persuading when it comes to throwing a party or having a festival. In ancient times, an astounding 150 days of the year were set aside for rest and relaxation. Nowadays, the city's residents don't have quite as many days off, however that does not mean there is not an abundance of exciting and entertaining festivals to attend. Hotels in central Rome fill up quickly during these times, so those interested in attending particular festivals should book well in advance.

Festivals

Some festivals surround religious holidays while others are simply a celebration of music, art and culture. No matter the occasion, Romans love to let their hair down and enjoy a good party.

Natale di Roma: Not every city celebrates their birthday, but this one certainly does! "Born" in 753 BC, it is a city unlike any other. Every year, on 21 April the city begins the festivities with the lighting of the sacred fire in Piazza del Campidoglio. The party continues with the commemoration of the foundations of the city at Circo Massimo, followed by a concert there. City hall and the piazzas located on the hill are illuminated and from the balcony of any hotels in central Rome you will have a ringside seat - however attending the actual event is certainly an experience that should not be missed.

How do British and Irish celebrate their Easter?

Simnel Cake for Easter (Photo credit: Jessicastjohn)

Author: Adam Simonds
Often it is found that Easter in England and Ireland is celebrated in private parties and family gathering. During the hay days of Christianity, Easter was known as Pascha and the word derived from the Hebrew term Passover. Later on during the Anglo Saxon era the same celebration got a new name "Easter"; and this time it came from Eostre, the Anglo Saxon goddess of fertility during springtime.

Celebrating Christmas in Italy

Image by paparutzi via Flickr
By Pollux Parker


The Christmas in Italy is celebrated in a different manner as compared to other countries. The Italian Christmas season in Italy lasts not only for a day but for a total of three weeks and it always begin with a novena.
The Novena is observed eight days before the 25th of December. It is a fun filled period that celebrated with beautiful music and laughter. Traditionally, the Novena period is observed by groups of young musicians, equipped with their musical instruments, going around their neighborhood and singing Christmas songs and reciting poems for Christmas. Musicians can also choose to be in a shepherd's clothes. They would often perform at different houses in their neighborhood and after their performance; they would be given monetary gifts.

Top 10 Reasons to Go See the Last Supper

Image via Wikipedia
By Mimi Rippy


1. The Last Supper, or Il Cenacolo, as it is called in Italian, is one of the most popular attractions on the Italian tourism circuit. So buy your Last Supper Painting Tickets before hand to ensure you are able to view the painting and don't miss out on this incredible experience.