Antonio explains that the Italian tradition of constructing a nativity scene during the Christmas season had it origins in the thirteenth century, when Saint Francis of Assisi organized the first live re-enactment of the birth of Jesus. It soon spread to all of Italy, but above all to the Kingdom of Naples, where everyone got involved, from the poorest family to the King himself.

Cettina shows us how to make a very basic nativity scene.

For many Italians, putting up a presepe (manger scene or crèche) at Christmas time is as, if not more important than putting up a Christmas tree. Antonio talks about the traditions concerning its origins, two thousand and eleven years ago.

Coffee, in its broadest sense, is the topic of the Caffè Corto Moak, the international short film competition, now in its eighth year, promoted by Caffè Moak.

Fellini gives us his personal views on tempo libero, (free-time). Whatever you do, don't show up if you have an appuntamento (appointment) with him!

This newscast is completely dedicated to Christmas and the holidays... no news of the world or politics. Be careful, though, there's an unexpected guest!

With its soft-toned accompaniment and gentle lyrics, "Il regalo più grande" ("The Greatest Gift") sung by Tiziano Ferro, creates a special mood. It was released as a single in 2009 and in that year became fifth on the list of best-selling songs.

Back in the days when people traveled on horseback, Al Biondo Tevere was a convenient rest stop just outside the walls of the city. People would feed and water their horses, and trade what was in their bundles of food with their fellow travelers. Later, it became a proper restaurant and many famous people became regulars, including filmmakers, Pasolini and Bertolucci. Signora Giuseppina shares the story.

An important new element in the investigation comes into play: some romantic letters found at the victim's house. Lara is comparing the handwriting to that of the note found next to his dead body.

Cettina and Alex show us how they decorate their Christmas tree.

The great Luciano Pavarotti, accompanied by a children's choir, sings the most famous Italian Christmas song of all, Tu scendi dalle stelle (You come down from the stars), composed in 1754 in the province of Naples. Buon Natale!

What's one of the first things you think of when talking about Italy? Food! Daniela tells us about the sagre (festivals) having to do with every kind of food imaginable.

Francesca takes us to Mount Terminillo, a range of mountains whose highest peak is over two thousand two hundred meters high. It's easy to get to from Rome and there's lots to do there.

"Food is culture." What do we mean by this? Cultural historian, Massimo Montanari, and world-famous chef, Gualtiero Marchesi share their views.

How do you like your coffee? Find out how Cettina likes hers!