As home to Vatican City, the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, Rome is rich with sacred Christmas traditions. Manger scenes, called presepi, originated just a little north of Rome in Assisi some 800 years ago, when St. Francis taught the story of Jesus's birth with props. For a bit of manger history, visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. There you can see five wooden planks, said to be from the original Christmas manger. Or visit the Vatican's Nativity scene – the premier decorati

In a time of unprecedented church wealth, St. Francis inspired a refocused spirituality through poverty, humility, and the beauty of nature. On Day 9 of your My Way Italy vacation, our bus will bring you to St. Francis’ hometown — Assisi. We’ll spend two nights there, giving you plenty of time to wander through (and wonder at) this charming town and its surrounding hills. | Rick Steves' Europe