Celebrating Christmas in Italy: Top Decorations for Italian Christmas Trees

Christmas has come to pass once again, and each household is tinged with festive decorations and decorations. This is particularly true in Italy, where people have a particular charm in how they celebrate the Christmas season. An important aspect of Italian Christmas celebrations involves the placement of decorations on the family Christmas tree. In this article, we will explore the unique top decorations that Italians traditionally place on their festive trees, making their Christmas celebrations truly special.

Introduction to Italian Christmas Tree Traditions

Whenever I visited my Italian relatives for Christmas, they always had a small tabletop tree as part of a nativity scene (crêche diorama). This tree was not just a symbol of Christmas; it was a point of pride for the household, often standing tall with its own unique decoration at its apex.

The Star of Bethlehem

The most common top decoration that Italians use for their Christmas trees is the Star of Bethlehem, a symbol deeply rooted in Christian tradition. This star, often made of gold or silver, often represents the guiding light of the holy birth. It’s quite common to see a typical Christmas tree adorned with a small star at its very top. Sometimes, this star is even addressed as 'Angelo Messezago' or the Angel of Annunciation, which plays a significant role in the nativity story.

Alternative Decorations: The Angel

Instead of the Star of Bethlehem, some Italians prefer to use an angel to crown their Christmas tree. Often made of glass or made with intricate designs, these angels symbolize the angel that announced Christ's birth to Mary and Joseph, and later to the shepherds in the fields. These angels are just as intricate, often featuring delicate wings and detailed faces, adding a touch of angelic charm to the tree.

Unexpected Choices for Top-Tree Decorations

While the star or angel are the most typical choices, you’ll find that Italian Christmas tree enthusiasts can get rather creative. Others might choose to decorate their Christmas tree with items that hold personal significance or cultural heritage. Some homes might see a small pizza or a plate of spaghetti placed on top as a nod to the iconic Italian cuisine, while others might go for quirky and unique items to add a touch of the unusual to their celebration. Interestingly, Lovecraft fans might dream of placing a mysterious Cthulhu figurine atop the tree, but the practical and reasonable side of most Italian families veto such whimsical ideas.

Modern Trends and Personalization

Over the years, modern Italian families have started to personalize their Christmas trees even more. Children’s handiwork, such as handmade decorations or intricate paper chains, are often incorporated into the tree’s top decoration. Additionally, themed decorations that reflect the family’s interests or hobbies are also popular additions.

Conclusion

Italian Christmas tree traditions offer a unique glimpse into how this beloved holiday is celebrated in Italy. While the star and angel are the most traditional choices for the top decoration, there is a rich tradition of creativity and personalization that adds a unique touch to the festive season. From the star that represents the guiding light to the angel that heralds divine news, these decorations tell a story and make each Christmas tree a beautiful and meaningful part of many Italian households.