UNLOCKING THE HOLY DOOR IN ROME: WHAT EXACTLY IS THE 2025 JUBILEE?
The Jubilee 2025 is a once-in-a-lifetime event that offers a unique opportunity to
experience Rome and the Vatican in a deeply spiritual and historical context. Millions of
pilgrims from all around the world will flock to Italy's capital city for the Holy Year
2025, which will begin at Christmas 2024 and end on Epiphany 2026. But what exactly is
the Jubilee, and why is it so important?
THE ORIGINS OF CHRISTMAS: FEASTING, FUN, AND CHAOS IN ANCIENT ROME
The holiday season has arrived, and for many people, it means Christmas trees, gift-
giving, and careless eating. But what if we told you that much of this holiday cheer has
its origins in an ancient Roman celebration that was less about Christmas carols
and more about wild partying? Let’s talk about Saturnalia, the pagan festival that
turned Rome upside down every December and paved the way for many of our
Christmas traditions.
MYSTERIES OF VENICE: THE DAMNED COLUMN OF THE DOGE’S PALACE PRISON
For anyone visiting Venice - a city full of mystery and legend - the Doge’s Palace, a
masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture located in St. Mark's Square, is a must-
see. This iconic building once housed the city’s rulers and later became infamous for its
prisons. Among its many enigmatic tales, the "damned column" attracts with
curiosity both visitors and locals alike.
ROME'S MYSTERIES: MASTRO TITTA, THE FEARED EXECUTIONER
When we think of Rome, images of historical landmarks, delicious cuisine, and artistic
masterpieces usually come to mind. But did you know there’s a darker side to the city’s
history? With Halloween just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to revisit some of its
most chilling characters.
Ancient Spirits of Rome: The Obelisk, Julius Caesar, and St. Peter’s Secrets
Did you know that Julius Caesar's ghost is rumored to wander through some of Rome's most iconic landmarks? From his tragic assassination to mysterious sightings near the obelisk in St. Peter’s Square, his legend lives on in the Eternal City. Want to dive deeper into this haunting tale? Keep reading for the full story!
Why are Italians so obsessed with the aperitivo and the spritz?
If you've ever taken a sunset stroll through an Italian piazza, you've surely noticed people gathering around outdoor tables, drinks in hand, with plates of small bites to enjoy. That's the iconic aperitivo, and more often than not, the drink they're holding is a Spritz. So, what makes this ritual such a big deal in Italy?