Author: Giubileo Magazine
Rome: The Smashing Pumpkins on august 1st at the Capannelle Hippodrome
As part of Rock in Roma, the legendary band led by Billy Corgan, THE SMASHING PUMPKINS, will perform on August 1, 2025, at the Capannelle Hippodrome. They will play their greatest hits and present their latest album, “Aghori Mhori Mei”, released earlier this year. This is a unique opportunity to experience the electrifying energy and melancholic poetry of one of the most iconic bands in alternative rock. Tickets will be available starting Friday, December 20, 2024, at 10:00 AM on rockinroma.com, ticketone.it, and ticketmaster.it. Born in the early ’90s under the fiery leadership of the brilliant and charismatic Billy Corgan, the Pumpkins have defied labels, crossing genres and decades with a chameleon-like ability that few bands can match. From the distorted and dreamy sounds of masterpieces like “Siamese Dream” (1993) to the epic symphony of “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness” (1995)—a double album that made music history—The Smashing Pumpkins have crafted a unique sonic universe: a captivating mix of grunge, shoegaze, heavy metal, psychedelia, and majestic orchestrations. “Bullet With Butterfly Wings,” “Tonight, Tonight,” “1979”—songs infused with rebellious energy and melancholic poetry that resonate with entire generations. Their music is more than just sound; it’s an emotional journey, a dive into the light and dark sides of the human soul, driven by Corgan’s unmistakable voice and thunderous guitars that rage like electric storms. In an era where rock seemed defined, the Pumpkins broke the mold, becoming symbols of innovation and introspection. Over thirty years later, their legend continues to grow, inspiring and mesmerizing audiences worldwide. Their concerts are pure sonic catharsis: immersive light and sound shows that transport spectators on a journey through their glorious past and an unwritten future. The Smashing Pumpkins are more than a band; they are a living legend.
Read MoreAcea Illuminates the Jubilee
115 Years Since Its Founding, the Group’s Commitment to the Holy Year 2025 Acea announced its initiatives and projects for the Holy Year 2025 in the Sala San Pio X in the Vatican. The event featured speeches from His Excellency Monsignor Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, and Acea’s leadership, including Chairwoman Barbara Marinali and CEO Fabrizio Palermo. They outlined the company’s contributions to the internationally significant event set to begin in a few days. One of the most notable projects was carried out by Areti, the Group’s subsidiary responsible for public and artistic lighting in the City of Rome. Areti revamped and enhanced the lighting of the statues atop the colonnade of St. Peter’s Square. Thanks to this light architecture project, the 140 travertine sculptures crowning the columns and pillars of the most iconic peristyle in the Christian world are now illuminated by 280 next-generation LED projectors. These projectors are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Additionally, the company upgraded the LED lighting for the public spaces of St. Peter’s Square, Via della Conciliazione, and the chandeliers of Bernini’s colonnade. In preparation for the Jubilee, Acea is also installing 14 new Water Houses, two within Vatican City and 12 in Rome, strategically placed along Jubilee routes and near major Basilicas. These will complement the existing Water Houses and the city’s 2,500 iconic “nasoni” fountains, providing tourists and pilgrims with access to some of the world’s purest and most certified drinking water—Rome’s water. Acea has also launched the new app “Acquea,” which geolocates over 150,000 water points on a map. The app provides information in three languages (Italian, English, and Spanish) about the quality of the water available. The company will support the Jubilee of Adolescents from April 25 to April 27, which is expected to draw over 100,000 young people aged 12 to 17 to the capital. Acea will carry out water conservation awareness initiatives as part of an educational program in schools. Further details on the projects and more in-depth information are available at the following link: https://www.gruppo.acea.it/giubileo.
Read MoreRome: Inspections ahead of the Jubilee, Police shut down two hospitality establishments
Area near Termini Station. Police inspections of hospitality facilities are becoming increasingly stringent in preparation for the Jubilee: two unauthorized hotels have been uncovered, and the Rome Police Chief has ordered their immediate closure. Preventing illegal operations and management practices that disregard current regulations for hospitality establishments is one of the main reasons that led the Rome Police Chief to seal two properties located on Via Palestro and Via Varese. This decision follows numerous inspections conducted by the State Police in view of the upcoming Jubilee. Starting with a simple license for guesthouses — as in the case of the property on Via Palestro — or an “alternative form of hospitality” license — as in the case of the property on Via Varese — and then effectively managing the facility as a hotel is one of the methods used to circumvent laws and regulations. This is precisely the violation identified by officers from the Administrative Division of the Rome Police Department regarding the owners of the two establishments in question. After reviewing the documentation, the Rome Police Chief, tasked by law with ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens, issued an order for the immediate cessation of the illegal activities. The order was executed by agents from the Administrative and Social Division.
Read More“Christmas in Jazz” is coming: seven events to celebrate the holidays at Casa del Jazz in Rome
December 21–29, 2024 The much-anticipated Christmas concert series returns to the Casa del Jazz in Rome, a musical journey that explores the origins and evolution of jazz—from dixieland and swing to bop. Seven extraordinary evenings featuring orchestras, vocal ensembles, and small bands will enliven the most festive time of the year, offering unique moments of rhythm and magic. Before Christmas, two concerts will feature clarinetist and composer Nico Gori with two different ensembles: the explosive Swing 10tet of ten musicians (December 21) and the Young Lions Quartet (December 22). The popular banjo virtuoso Lino Patruno will perform jazz Christmas classics with a sextet (December 23). After Christmas, the program continues with Retrosax, a group featuring three saxophones—alto, tenor, and baritone—with rhythm section accompaniment (December 26), followed by trombonist and leader Massimo Pirone, who will bring to life jazz classics from the 1920s and 1930s (December 27). The highly anticipated Rossana Casale returns with her new album Almost Blue, a program of jazz standards inspired by the color blue, such as Afro Blue, Almost Blue, Blue in Green, and more (December 28). The grand finale features the Mario Corvini Big Band, a 16-piece jazz ensemble, with internationally renowned guest soloist Rosario Giuliani (December 29). PROGRAM December 21 and 22 at 9 PM NICO GORI SWING 10TET The Nico Gori Swing 10tet is an explosive project and one of the most refined jazz ensembles in Italy, led by clarinetist and saxophonist Nico Gori. In 2025, the group will celebrate its 10th anniversary. Since starting his career in 1998, Nico Gori has contributed to numerous jazz, funk, and pop recordings, as well as creating jingles and TV music. He has collaborated with some of the biggest names in international jazz. December 22 at 6 PM NICO GORI & YOUNG LIONS This quartet alternates American jazz standards with original compositions by leader Nico Gori. The program also features forays into South American music, including Brazilian pieces from choro to bossa nova. The ensemble is known for its refined sound, well-crafted arrangements, youthful energy, and outstanding interplay among the “young lions” musicians. December 23 at 9 PM LINO PATRUNO Lino Patruno will perform on banjo and vocals, presenting some of the great jazz classics, including Jingle Bells and White Christmas, in celebration of the season, infused with swing and jazz feeling. The concert will also pay tribute to jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong, Bix Beiderbecke, Nick La Rocca, Coleman Hawkins, Eddie Lang, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and Ella Fitzgerald. Lino Patruno has received the Golden Globe from the Foreign Press for the film Forever Blues (directed by and starring Franco Nero) and a personal commendation from President Mattarella for his contributions to jazz history. December 26 at 9 PM RETROSAX FEAT. GIORGIO CUSCITO, RED PELLINI & FABRIZIO D’ALISERA Retrosax is a band composed of three saxophones—alto, tenor, and baritone—plus a rhythm section with guitar, double bass, and drums. The arrangements focus on harmonized saxophone themes reminiscent of a big band sax section, while allowing freedom and spontaneity for the soloists, evoking the lively energy of a jazz club jam session. The repertoire spans the 1920s to early 1940s, showcasing pure mainstream swing. December 27 at 9 PM MASSIMO PIRONE “THE LORDS OF DIXIELAND” This project stems from leader Massimo Pirone’s passion for original jazz music from the 1920s and 1930s. The Lords of Dixieland Orchestra performs American jazz standards from that era, using authentic arrangements provided to Pirone by an American archivist, including works by Hoagy Carmichael. Unlike many tributes to this genre, this performance exclusively features original period arrangements. December 28 at 7:30 PM and 9 PM ROSSANA CASALE Following her work on Joni, Rossana Casale returns to jazz with Almost Blue, a concept album inspired by the color blue and its deeper significance in jazz. Blue symbolizes melancholy and hope. From the “blue feeling” came the blues, rooted in the songs of enslaved people in cotton fields, reflecting a longing for freedom and redemption. “The blues is more than a color; it’s a moan of pain, the flavor of conflict, a sad refrain, but also a game that life plays” (All Blues – Kind of Blue, M. Davis, 1959). December 29 at 9 PM MARIO CORVINI BIG BAND – Special Guest ROSARIO GIULIANI The Mario Corvini Big Band was born from an idea by Mario Corvini, founder of the New Talents Jazz Orchestra in 2012 and co-founder of the Parco della Musica Jazz Orchestra in 2005. This classic jazz ensemble features 16 musicians plus a conductor. The program includes original compositions by Mario Corvini, shaped by years of collaborations. These works maintain artistic originality while being enriched by the unique contributions of guest soloists. In this performance, the guest soloist is internationally acclaimed saxophonist Rosario Giuliani. Corvini and Giuliani share a long-standing friendship and professional history, including their work on the Miserere project with the Mac Saxophone Quartet, for which Corvini arranged the music. INFO AND TICKETS: WWW.CASADELJAZZ.COM
Read MoreThe Chosen: The Christmas special “Holy Night” arrives in Italy to celebrate the Nativity
The holiday special of The Chosen, the historical drama about the life of Jesus and composed of the short films The Shepherd and The Messengers, is being screened for free across Italy. A special event will take place in Rome on December 20th, featuring guests, music, and reflections. A celebration that brings together faith, art, and community: the global phenomenon series offers a unique holiday experience for free. 200 million viewers worldwide More than 700 million episode views A global fanbase of over 110 million people, including many in Italy Over 12 million followers on social media The Chosen is the largest crowdfunded multimedia project ever. With over 200 million unique viewers globally and more than 700 million episode views (Italy ranks fifth globally for total views and first in Europe for app downloads, with 215,000 registered users), The Chosen, the global TV series phenomenon, celebrates Christmas with a special episode titled “Holy Night”, now available in Italian. This episode, dedicated to the Nativity, is being screened for free in churches, associations, charities, and faith networks throughout Italy, offering a unique opportunity to experience the true spirit of Christmas through the power of visual storytelling. Over 1,000 screenings have already been organized (details available at www.thechosen.it/natale). “Holy Night” is a unique experience, made up of two Christmas-themed short films: The Shepherd, the first pilot episode of The Chosen, which raised over $10 million through crowdfunding, and The Messengers. Among the protagonists of this touching and engaging retelling of the Nativity are Mary (both young and older, played by Sara Anne and Vanessa Benavente, respectively), Joseph (Raj Bond), and Mary Magdalene (Elizabeth Tabish). To celebrate the arrival of “Holy Night” in Italian, a special free event open to the public will take place on December 20th at the Auditorium of the Chiesa Pio X in Rome. During the event, hosted by Monica Marangoni and Alessandro Greco, the Christmas special will be screened alongside moments of reflection and music. Confirmed guests include Don Davide Banzato, a well-known television personality and host of I sentieri del cuore on Canale 5, who will deliver a monologue about Christmas; Nico Battaglia, a contemporary Christian music singer-songwriter who will perform pieces from his repertoire; and Giovanni Zappalà, the Italian representative of The Chosen, who will share his testimony about the series’ impact in Italy and around the world. “It’s incredible how The Chosen is gaining such widespread favor with the public in Italy,” says Zappalà. “The numbers speak for themselves: the more than 7.6 million episodes viewed demonstrate the deep passion Italians have shown for the first TV series about the life of Jesus. We called upon our Italian fanbase to organize the event Christmas with The Chosen, featuring the screening of the special episode Holy Night. Around 1,000 events have already been organized throughout Italy—not only in churches but also in theaters, associations, schools, and cinemas. The The Chosen phenomenon is spreading everywhere. And there’s still time: until January 15th, anyone interested can organize a free event by making a request at www.thechosen.it/natale.” Last year, Holy Night was released in American cinemas to great success. Within the special, maestro Andrea Bocelli and his son Matteo performed an emotional piece, which has since garnered over 40 million views and 2 million likes on Instagram. Starting November 25, 2024, all four seasons of The Chosen are available for free in Italian on the official app. The fifth season will be available in 2025. The Chosen, directed and co-written by Dallas Jenkins, is a grassroots project launched in the United States (funded through crowdfunding) and first released online for free in 2019. It boasts a global fanbase of over 110 million people, with a significant presence in Italy, the continental European country with the highest number of app downloads. 4o
Read More“True or False”: Marco Capretti’s Show from March 14th to March 30th, 2025 at Fonderia delle Arti
“True or False” is the title that captures the essence of this show. Over ninety minutes, Marco will explore roughly three thousand years of known history, from the mysteries of the pyramids, through the tablets of Moses, and up to the moon landing. Enigmas, anecdotes, and twists of reality that we have necessarily taken as true, but which we will discover to be surprisingly false and incredibly comedic! Were the most infamous villains in history really as bad as they’re made out to be? How many popes exercised spiritual (and temporal) power simultaneously? What if Salvini’s alcohol law decree had been passed in the last century? How did things really go between Michael Jackson and Albano? And what if the Rocky soundtrack had been written in Italy? These are just a few of the curiosities that will offer the audience a completely new perspective—different from the one they know—astonishing, and at times romantic. The use of a LED wall will enrich the storytelling with unpublished video and photographic content that is surprising and, of course, comical. History rewritten in a new, innovative, curious, and witty way! Thus, a show is born where the audience becomes curious, participates, and laughs. Thanks to its spontaneity, themes, and language, it is extremely enjoyable and suitable for all ages. Enjoy the show! Theater: Fonderia delle Arti Dates: March 14th to March 30th, 2025 Showtimes: Fridays and Saturdays at 9:00 PM – Sundays at 5:30 PM Info & Reservations: Address: Via Assisi 31 (Rome, Tuscolano) – 06.2754379 Production contact: 389.8285328
Read MoreSavarese Pastry Bottega Storica
Rome: Tradition and Sweets at the Historic Shop Pasticceria Savarese Rome, the City of Popes and Emperors, is also the city of crafts, artisans, taverns, and popular traditions. A treasure trove of activities that fascinates not only Italian tourists but also visitors from around the world. In this context, Rome’s municipal government has decided to enhance traditional and historic artisan activities through a special recognition: the title of “Historic Shops.” The Recognition of Historic Shops To earn this prestigious certification, a business must meet specific criteria: at least 50 years of operation and a family history spanning at least three generations. This recognition is more than just a title; it is a testament to dedication, tradition, and continuity in preserving Rome’s artisanal heritage. Pasticceria Savarese: A Story of Sweetness and Tradition Among the distinguished recipients of this title is Pasticceria Savarese, recently recognized through an official resolution by the Rome municipal government. Located in the Appio neighborhood on Via Genzano, the pastry shop is run by the three Savarese sisters: Pina, Grazia, and Piera, who proudly call themselves “Pastry Chefs since 1961.” The municipal department described it as a true “Center of Flavorful Memories,” a place where tradition and quality come together to deliver unique and unforgettable treats. The Origins: From Campania to Rome The pastry shop’s story began in the 1960s when the Savarese sisters moved to Rome from the village of Sieti in Giffoni Sei Casali, Salerno province. They brought with them the recipes of their Campanian tradition, creating a corner of Neapolitan sweets in the heart of the capital. The Flavors of Tradition Pasticceria Savarese is renowned for its high-quality handmade products, cherished by locals and visitors alike. The pastiera napoletana is the highlight of their offerings, a dessert that perfectly embodies the pastry shop’s philosophy: authenticity, craftsmanship, and unparalleled flavor. During festive seasons, the pastry shop transforms into a temple of Neapolitan confectionery tradition, producing typical sweets that celebrate the year’s special moments. A Christmas Recipe for You During my visit, surrounded by the scents of almonds and vanilla, I had the privilege of learning a Christmas recipe directly from the Savarese sisters to share with you, dear readers. Enjoy your dessert, and I invite you to visit this “Historic Shop,” which is more than just a pastry shop: it’s a haven of tradition, memories, and genuine passion. Soft Mostaccioli Ingredients Flour: 1 kg Sugar: 700 g Cocoa: 200 g Honey: 200 g Pisto (spice mix): 20 g Ground almonds: 100 g Chopped orange zest: To taste Marsala wine: 300 ml Preparation Mix everything together, add a little water, and let the dough rest for a few hours. Then roll out the dough and shape it into diamonds. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 7–8 minutes at 170°C (340°F).
Read MoreRome: police headquarters launches the security plan for the jubilee of hope 2025. Test day on 8 December.
Rome: Security Plan for the 2025 Jubilee Ready to Launch The city of Rome is prepared to face the Jubilee Year with a detailed security plan outlined in a service ordinance on public order and safety issued by the Capital’s Chief of Police. This 150-page document is the result of extensive planning based on directives from Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi and the Chief of Police. A Plan Built on Hospitality, Courtesy, and Rigor The plan envisions a network of competencies distributed across the urban area, starting from the outskirts and extending to the heart of the city. The main access points to the capital, such as airports and the port of Civitavecchia, will serve as the first hubs for the security apparatus. From there, control will spread along key road and rail routes to ensure a safe flow into the historic center and the Jubilee basilicas. The plan’s priorities include territorial control and managing security for individual Jubilee events. The Rome Police Headquarters has planned an increase in patrols, supported by reinforcements from the Public Security Department. Particular focus will be placed on the Jubilee basilicas and the so-called Tridente area, with strategic routes dedicated to the safety of pilgrims and tourists. Resources Deployed The forces involved include the State Police, the Carabinieri Corps, Crime Prevention Units, and Rapid Intervention Teams. Additionally, railway, road, and border police, along with the Local Police of Rome, will play key roles. To ensure hospitality, mobile police offices will be stationed at strategic points such as Piazza di Spagna and Piazza Risorgimento. The defense sector will also contribute by strengthening the Strade Sicure operation, with military personnel stationed at metro stations and cultural sites. Security for Major Events Each Jubilee event will be managed with a dedicated security plan, divided into three zones: the respect area, the reserved area, and the maximum security area, each with increasingly stringent controls. Specialist units and anti-drone systems will also be activated to address potential threats, including terrorism. Cybersecurity will be entrusted to the Police Postal Service’s Cybersecurity Center, in coordination with CNAIPIC, to safeguard events and critical infrastructure. International Collaboration and Aerial and River Surveillance With an expected international audience, joint patrols will be conducted by Italian police forces and their counterparts from other countries. Special attention will be given to the Youth Jubilee, scheduled for the summer in Tor Vergata. Surveillance of the Tiber River will be handled by the Rome Police Headquarters’ River Police, supported by the Guardia di Finanza, ensuring safety along the waterway. The Role of Volunteers and Central Coordination The plan also includes contributions from volunteer organizations, such as the Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi and Unitalsi, to assist pilgrims. Overall coordination will be managed by the Event Security Management Center, ensuring effective communication among all involved forces. An Internationally Shared Plan With 62 major events already scheduled, the security plan has been shared with delegates from foreign embassies to provide maximum support to international pilgrims. Rome is ready to experience a Jubilee marked by hospitality, safety, and organization.
Read MoreCaffè Balduina Bottega Storica
Bar Caffè Balduina: A Historic Shop in Rome’s Balduina Neighborhood The Bar Caffè Balduina, located at Via Andrea Baldi 35 in Rome’s XIV Municipality, has recently been awarded the prestigious designation of “Historic Shop” by Rome’s municipal commission. This recognition honors its 70 years of activity. The café first opened its doors in the 1950s, during the construction of the Balduina neighborhood. Positioned along Via Ugo de Carolis, it was managed from the 1980s by Gaetano, an opera enthusiast, and his wife Grazia. About a year ago, ownership passed to entrepreneur Matteo Sica, a native of the Appio district and the current proprietor. Behind the counter, expert baristas Sara and Danilo serve the customers with a smile. For Giubileo Magazine, we interviewed the new owner, Matteo Sica, who shared insights into the bar’s rich history: “The business began before the 1960s as a milk bar. Time has passed, but the café is still alive and thriving, with customers who love to share their daily stories.” Sica highlighted the close-knit nature of the area: “Here, people know each other. In this corner of Balduina, there’s still a social and economic fabric that is disappearing elsewhere in Rome. For over sixty years, businesses like the wine and oil shop, the bakery, and others—such as the tobacconist, barber, hairdressers, greengrocer, butcher, and antique dealer—have been a constant presence.” A Neighborhood Café Like No Other Sica also described the unique camaraderie that defines the café’s atmosphere: “There’s a sort of friendly competition among customers to treat each other to coffee. This spontaneous generosity is something you wouldn’t find in a bar in the city center, where the rush of tourists leaves no time even to wash the cups. Here, we’re never in a hurry. This place feels like a large village, with a deep attachment to the neighborhood. The customers are practically always the same; about 80 percent are regulars, while the remaining 20 percent are split between workers and the occasional passerby.” He continued: “Gaetano and Grazia ran the bar for many years, leaving their mark on Balduina. Now, we’ve decided to continue in their footsteps, preserving the bar’s original identity. It remains a classic café where everyone shares their stories. Here, nothing escapes anyone’s notice. What’s beautiful is the sense of belonging—a community spirit. This area has always attracted former RAI employees, retired military personnel, and even some familiar faces. For instance, Lillo often stops by for a coffee. We’re the only bar located on one of Balduina’s main streets, and you can feel it. The locals are accustomed to visiting the various small shops in the area, perhaps because, for now, there’s no room for a shopping mall here.” Preserving Memories Over Coffee Sica concluded with a reflection on the café’s essence: “It’s about preserving memories, over a coffee and a casual ‘tomorrow is another day.’” This historic café not only offers great coffee but also serves as a living reminder of Rome’s enduring charm, where traditions and stories blend seamlessly into daily life.
Read MoreMatera: The jubilee dress by Michele Miglionico created for Maria SS. of Bruna
In a packed Cathedral of Matera, Lucanian fashion designer Michele Miglionico unveiled “Vestita di Sole” (Clothed in the Sun), a Jubilee gown created and donated to Maria SS. della Bruna, the patroness of the City of Sassi, in the presence of H.E. Mons. Antonio Giuseppe Caiazzo and the local community. The event, part of the 70th anniversary of Matera Civitas Mariae and the Jubilee 2025, brought together faith and devotion, offering a deeply moving moment. “Vestita di Sole” is the name of a gown born from an intimate dialogue between the designer and his spirituality. Miglionico explained that the creative process was profoundly personal, marked by deliberations and continuous reflections, yet the gown ultimately seemed to take form almost autonomously. It is a piece of Haute Couture, rich in details that blend tradition and innovation, paying homage to craftsmanship and uniquely reflecting devotion to sacred fashion. The gown draws inspiration from the 1856 copper painting, a symbol of the “Pastori” procession dedicated to the Madonna della Bruna. The garment is crafted from silk duchess, Valencienne gold lace, and silk brocade. Its late Renaissance-style bodice, made from jacquard fabric, was artisanally woven on an ancient loom. The silk mantle is adorned with raised embroidered roses in gold and silver leaf, emphasizing Marian symbols. One of the two skirts is entirely lined with lace, intricately embroidered with festoons and roses in crystals, pearls, and jet. A particular source of pride is the “Puntino ad ago” lace shirt, handcrafted by the lacemakers of Latronico, who are the last guardians of this unique technique. Over four months of meticulous work were required to create this extraordinary piece. Miglionico is among the few designers daring to venture into creations of such spiritual significance, showcasing a rare combination of artistic and devotional sensitivity. The event, organized by the Maria SS. della Bruna Association, led by Dr. Bruno Caiella, was hosted by journalist Antonella Losignore. It was further enhanced by performances from the Associazione Corale Cantori Materani, directed by Maestro Alessandra Barbaro, and the Coro della Polifonica Materana “Pierluigi da Palestrina”, directed by Maestro Carmine Antonio Catenazzo, which added a highly evocative atmosphere to the occasion.
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