Commemorating the visit of the three wise men to Jesus. On this date Christian tradition celebrates Christ’s revelation to the pagans. It has been a bank holiday in Italy since 1985.
How it is celebrated in Rome: Epiphany in Rome is a colourful event. The tradition is for children to hang a stocking in the kitchen or living room and make hot coffee for the old woman Befana who will visit their homes during the night. Children who have been good will be given sweets and toys, those who have been bad only coal. On the night of 5 January Piazza Navona is filled with sweets stalls, which have been set up and running in the days up to the event. Children can have their photos taken with Santa Claus and the Befana. Shops are usually closed. Public transport services are running.
This date commemorates the general uprising of partisans in 1945 that freed most of northern Italy from the Nazi-fascist occupation. This festivity was recognised by Law 260 of 27 May 1949, as was 2 June (founding of the Republic).
What happens in Rome: The President of the Republic goes to the Altare della Patria (tomb of the unknown soldier) to pay homage to the fallen in battle. Most shops are closed, but public transport services are running.
This date commemorates the martyrdom of the two Apostles in 67 A.D and the depositing of their bodies in the catacombs of St Sebastian, on 29 June 258 A.D under Emperor Valerian. Peter and Paul are considered to be the founders of Roman Christianity, being the first to bring the Word to the capital of the Empire. For this reason they were chosen as patron saints of the city. Initially recognised as a national holiday, on 29 June it is a festivity celebrated since 1985 only within the municipality of Rome (decree of the President of the Republic no. 792 of 28 December 1985).Most shops are closed on this day, but public transport services are running.