The traditional Christmas tree was erected in St Peter’s Square on Thursday in readiness for the opening of the Holy Year of Mercy on December 8.
 
An 82ft fir tree has been donated by the municipalities of Hirschau, Schnaittenbach and Freudenberg in Germany’s Bavaria region. The tree will be accompanied by a nativity scene donated by the diocese and autonomous province of Trento.
 
Vatican landscapers are preparing the tree and the Nativity scene for December 8, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. The decorations this year include painted ceramic ornaments made by children receiving oncological care in a number of Italian hospitals. The tree will be lit up on the evening of Friday, December 18. The Nativity scene was donated by the northern Italian province of Trent.

Receive more stories like this in your inbox