A unique initiative comes from Celleno, Italy (province of Viterbo), a small village about 90 minutes from Rome: the “Ghost Egg Hunt”, which will take place on Easter Monday (April 6, 2026) in the area’s well-known “ghost town” in the Tuscia region of central Italy.

 

Between 200 and 400 visitors are expected in Celleno, Italy, taking part in the search for one or more “ghost eggs” hidden throughout the historic center and around the Orsini Castle. The activity will take place from the morning throughout the entire day, around the ghost village and in the surroundings of the castle.

 

The initiative has been officially announced by the Mayor of Celleno, Italy, Luca Beraldo, marking the first edition of the event.

 

The activity is designed as a playful and exploratory experience for children, families, and visitors, who will be invited to find symbolic “ghost eggs” hidden across the ancient village. Participation is free and part of the Easter holiday celebrations in Italy.

 

“We invite everyone, both young and old, to take part in this day,” said Mayor Luca Beraldo. “It will be an opportunity to experience the village in a different way, driven by curiosity and discovery. A moment of community, fun, slow tourism, and religious celebration, where families and visitors can share a special day together.”

 

The ancient village of Celleno, Italy, gradually abandoned after World War II due to earthquakes and geological instability, is now partially open to visitors and has become one of the most visited destinations in the Tuscia area during holidays and weekends in Italy.

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FOR JOURNALISTS – BACKGROUND ON PARANORMAL REPORTS AND HISTORICAL CONTEXT

Located in the province of Viterbo, about one hour from Rome in central Italy, the village of Celleno – now also known as the “Ghost Village” – was gradually abandoned after World War II due to earthquakes and geological instability.

 

Over time, restoration efforts have made part of the site accessible to visitors. Today, it can be explored as an open-air historical site, featuring a “scattered museum” with traces and remains from Etruscan and medieval periods.

 

The village was also highlighted by The Telegraph as one of Italy’s “most beautiful places lost in time.”

 

Over the years, Celleno has also become associated with stories about the so-called “ghost of the village,” often linked to historical events involving the powerful Gatti Family. Giovanni Gatti, the last prominent member of this noble family, was killed in Celleno on May 27, 1496, in the main square near the castle—an episode that has contributed over time to the legends and mysterious narratives surrounding the village.

 

Alongside these stories, investigations conducted by the Centro Italiano Studi Paranormali (Italian Center for Paranormal Studies) have documented unusual phenomena detected through technical instruments, although no definitive conclusions have been reached.

 

For approximately forty years, the Orsini Castle was inhabited exclusively by the internationally renowned artist Enrico Castellani, who lived and worked there until his death. Here he created many of his works, now exhibited in major museums worldwide, with some reaching values of several million euros.

 

 

Christmas in Italy isn’t just a holiday — it’s a season full of history, flavor, celebration, and heartfelt traditions that bring families, towns, and entire regions to life. Whether you’re an expat experiencing your first Italian Christmas or a returning fan of the magic, 2025 promises some beautiful celebrations across the country.

Here’s what to expect, what not to miss, and how to live the holidays the Italian way.

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When Christmas Really Begins in Italy

Unlike many countries where Christmas “starts” in December, in Italy it begins officially on December 8th, the Festa dell’Immacolata, a national holiday. This is when you’ll see:

• Trees going up
• Lights switched on
• Christmas markets opening

Nativity scenes displayed everywhere (especially in small villages)

From this day on, every Italian city becomes a postcard.

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Christmas Markets (Mercatini di Natale)

In 2025, expect the biggest and most beautiful markets in:

Bolzano & Trento (Trentino-Alto Adige)

Famous Alpine wooden stalls, mulled wine, artisan crafts — the closest thing to a storybook Christmas.

Rome – Piazza Navona

Carousels, handmade toys, street performers, roasted chestnuts — perfect for families and expats.

Florence – Weihnachtsmarkt Santa Croce

German-style market with Italian charm.

Naples – Via San Gregorio Armeno

The world’s most famous street for handcrafted Nativity figurines.

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What Italians Eat at Christmas

If you’re spending Christmas in Italy, prepare to eat — a lot.

Christmas Eve (La Vigilia – Dec. 24)

Traditionally fish-based, featuring:

• Baccalà
• Fried calamari
• Spaghetti alle vongole
• Insalata di mare

Christmas Day (Dec. 25)

A feast of:

• Lasagne or cappelletti in broth
• Roast lamb or veal
• Artichokes, chicory, and roasted veggies
• Torrone, panettone, pandoro

Santo Stefano (Dec. 26)

Basically: leftovers, but Italian leftovers are better than most gourmet meals.

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Religious Traditions

Italy’s Catholic heritage shapes many Christmas customs.

Midnight Mass

Held in every city — including the world-famous one at the Vatican.

Presepi (Nativity Scenes)

Italians take these very seriously. Some towns build living nativity villages with actors.

La Befana (Jan. 6)

Christmas in Italy doesn’t end on December 25.
It continues until Epiphany, when the good witch Befana brings sweets to well-behaved children.

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What’s New for Christmas 2025?

Here are some 2025-specific notes and trends expats can look forward to:

Longer Holiday Light Shows

Major Italian cities announced extended Christmas-light programs for 2025, with sustainable LED installations and new artistic designs.

Special Holiday Trains

Expect extra high-speed trains between major cities to manage holiday travel — great news for expats planning to explore Italy during the break.

Early New Year’s Celebrations

Rome, Milan, Naples, Bologna, and Palermo will host larger-than-usual free public concerts and fireworks to kick off the Jubilee Year events leading into 2026.

Alpine Snow Season Looks Promising

Winter tourism forecasts predict excellent snow conditions for Christmas week — perfect for expat skiers.

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Celebrating Christmas as an Expat in Italy

Here are some fun ways to make the most of your Italian holiday:

• Join local Christmas markets and food tastings
• Take a day trip to a decorated medieval village
• Attend a holiday cooking class (panettone, anyone?)
• Visit a Christmas concert in a church or historical venue
• Decorate Italian-style: with lights, presepi, and lots of food

And don’t forget: Book restaurants early! Christmas Eve and Christmas Day fill up fast.

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Final Thoughts

Christmas in Italy is more than a season — it’s an experience that blends tradition, food, faith, and festivity. Whether you’re exploring markets, sharing meals with new friends, or just wandering through illuminated streets, 2025 will be a magical year to enjoy the holidays Italian-style.