*The garrison public affairs office translates summaries of local news articles for the convenience of non-Italian speaking community members. The information contained in these summaries is originally written by Italian news sources and does not reflect the opinion of U.S. Army Garrison Italy or any of its tenant commands. Direct any questions about the Italian news to the garrison public affairs office.*
Italian News from Vicenza – December 28, 2025
Vicenza rings in the New Year with citywide celebrations and early countdown for children – December 22, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Vicenza will celebrate New Year’s Eve in the city center with free events across multiple squares from afternoon until 1:30 a.m. The program includes a children’s New Year’s Eve, featuring performers, workshops and roaming entertainment in Piazza dei Signori, with an early countdown at 6:59 p.m. to give families a safe and festive experience. Four stages will host music and DJs in Piazza dei Signori, Contrà Cavour, Contrà Pescherie Vecchie and Ponte San Michele, while additional sets will run in Piazzetta Parise. Local businesses will join with their own initiatives, creating a citywide celebration. Safety rules ban spray streamers, irritant sprays and fireworks, with pyrotechnics prohibited citywide from Dec. 31 to Jan. 7, 2026, near schools and hospitals. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Torrebelvicino’s giant comet lights up Christmas – December 23, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Europe’s largest illuminated comet is about to shine over Val Leogra on Christmas Eve, kicking off its 39th edition. The 360‑meter star - strung between Mount Singio and Mount Cengio and powered by 166 LED lamps - will glow until the evening of St. Stephen’s Day. Behind the spectacle is a small army of about 30 volunteers who spent weeks assembling the massive structure. Rising costs, especially fuel for the generator, are putting pressure on the tradition as most expenses are covered through donations and volunteer fundraising. The star is expected to light up around 5 p.m., weather permitting, preceded by a 15‑minute signal from the central beacon. Families and children will gather at the sports center to share the moment together. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Full houses for Christmas, but ski slopes await snow – December 23, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Tourism on the Asiago Plateau is strong heading into the holidays, with hotel and restaurant bookings matching or exceeding recent years despite warm weather and limited snowfall. Hoteliers report high occupancy and rising demand for short, wellness‑focused stays. Snow shortages, however, are restricting ski operations with only a few alpine slopes open at Verena, Meletta di Mezzo and Valformica and limited cross‑country tracks available in Campolongo and Mount Corno. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)
Vicenza faces fifth snowless winter as warm weather spurs early blooms – December 21, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Vicenza is on track for its fifth winter without measurable snowfall, continuing a trend that began in 2020. Warmer‑than‑normal conditions have brought out‑of‑season flowers while the surrounding mountains face an 85 percent snow deficit compared to past decades. The lack of early‑winter snow raises concerns about spring drought since snowpack normally provides a slow‑melting water reserve. Frost, however, remains common, prompting preventive salting and coordinated responses across municipal departments. Priority routes include bridges, underpasses and access roads to schools and hospitals. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Man goes on rampage at city-center bar, bartender injured and police intervene – December 21, Il Giornale di Vicenza
A violent incident occurred shortly after 5 p.m. on Dec. 20 at Nelly’s bar in Vicenza’s city center. A man placed €300 on the counter to order a beer, refused to calm down after staff explained the drink cost €4, and continued behaving provocatively toward customers. Despite being served and given change, he harassed patrons and was asked to leave. Outside, he overturned tables and chairs, causing damage. When a bartender followed to seek help and call police, she was assaulted and injured on her hand. An ambulance treated her for minor injuries, while police intervened, identified the man, and launched an investigation into possible criminal charges. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Bolzano Vicentino backs “third way” plan for Via Aldo Moro extension – December 21, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Bolzano Vicentino has expressed support for the so-called “third way” option for the extension of Via Aldo Moro, now favored over the Anconetta and Ospedaletto routes and expected to be finalized by late 2026. The proposal envisages a road running parallel to the Vicenza–Treviso railway, linking the Vicenza Nord motorway exit to the Postumia road alongside the A31. The mayor views the project as an opportunity to improve connectivity with Vicenza and heal a geographic divide. The hamlet of Lisiera would be most affected, with plans to relocate the outdated toll booth, create interchange parking, consider reopening a railway station and enhance sustainable mobility. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Carabinieri in historic uniform patrol Vicenza’s city center during holiday season– December 20, VicenzaToday
On Dec. 20, the Carabinieri Provincial Command of Vicenza conducted a foot patrol in the city’s historic center, deploying officers in traditional high ceremonial uniform with cape and saber. The initiative forms part of a broader public order and safety measures, reinforcing the Carabinieri’s visibility and close relationship with citizens. Patrols focused on the most frequented areas, including major streets and squares such as Piazza dei Signori and Corso Palladio. Rooted in a long-standing tradition, the service will continue throughout the Christmas period until Epiphany, combining territorial control with the promotion of the institution’s historical identity. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Olimpichetto revival showcases Vicenza’s cultural legacy – December 20, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Olimpichetto, a unique traveling replica of Palladio’s Teatro Olimpico, is back on display in Vicenza’s Basilica after nearly 20 years in storage. Built in 1948 for the Venice Biennale, the eight‑meter‑high, 16‑meter‑long structure includes 80 original components and recreates a full stage inspired by historic mobile theaters. The city will host performances during its two‑month exhibition, and officials hope to send the piece abroad again. Restored by Engim with support from Telwin, the theater revealed the craftsmanship of its 1940s builders. Lighting designer Mario Nanni created custom wax‑burning lamps to mimic Renaissance torchlight for upcoming shows. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
City weighs expanding private security to more parking lots – December 19, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The city is considering expanding private security from the San Bortolo Hospital parking lot to other major lots to curb illegal parking attendants and aggressive panhandling. The hospital began using private guards this month, a move made possible by new access barriers that improved monitoring. Early tensions with illegal attendants have eased, and officials report better conditions during security shifts. The administration aims to extend surveillance to lots such as Fogazzaro, Eretenio and Piazza Matteotti once the new parking operator, Municipia, completes its transition and can coordinate with Magis, the current service provider. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Stabbing near Vicenza train station under investigation – December 18, Il Giornale di Vicenza
On the evening of Dec. 16, a 27-year-old Nigerian man was injured in a stabbing on Viale Roma, near the city’s train station. Police said the man, who has prior drug-related offenses, suffered a hand wound during a street altercation between 8 and 8:30 p.m. The victim was treated by emergency medical staff and taken to the hospital in stable condition. The suspected attacker, also Nigerian, fled the scene. Police are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to determine what sparked the confrontation. With the area often flagged for petty crime, investigators are examining whether the two men knew each other and if drug trafficking played a role. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Vicenza recognizes historic shops and businesses – December 15, VicenzaToday
On Dec. 15, Vicenza Mayor Giacomo Possamai and Economic Development Councilor Cristina Balbi honored two historic shops and five historic businesses during a ceremony at Palazzo Trissino. The newly designated shops are Ovo Sodo restaurant on Contrà Pescherie Vecchie 5, and Soprana e Marcato Optics on Contrà Muscheria 6. The businesses recognized include Bianca Venco’s fruit and vegetable shop on Contrà San Marco 7; Doria Pharmacy in Piazza dei Signori 49; Dalla Nea Roba Bea, a haberdashery and home goods store in Strada Tormeno; Paola Girardi’s tailoring shop on Corso Fogazzaro 139 and Salvadori Jewelry in Galleria Porti 2. With these additions, Vicenza now counts 44 historic shops and 42 historic businesses. Recipients each received a plaque and signage marking their recognition. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Recent Italian News highlights
Police bring holiday cheer to hospitalized kids – December 17, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Police officers visited San Bortolo Hospital’s pediatric wards, bringing gifts and smiles to young patients spending Christmas in care. Children received books, backpacks and hats, while Cetto, a police dog, offered cuddles. Hospital director Patrizia Simionato said the annual initiative helps children feel at home during the holidays. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Fewer road deaths, but Vicenza drivers struggle at roundabouts – December 17, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Vicenza confirms its position as the safest province in the Veneto for road accidents, recording the lowest mortality rate in the region. In 2024, there were 3.4 deaths per 100 accidents, well below the regional average of 5.5 and far lower than Treviso and Verona. Accidents, injuries, and fatalities all declined significantly, with deaths dropping from 43 to 29 in one year and nearly halving compared to 2019, placing Vicenza close to EU road safety targets. However, a clear weakness remains. Almost one in 10 accidents in the province occurs at roundabouts, the highest percentage in the Veneto, while extra-urban curves also see above-average crash rates, highlighting risky driving behavior despite overall safety improvements. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Vicenza ER launches online patient tracking tool – December 16, Il Giornale di Vicenza
ULSS 8 Berica has launched “Percorso PS,” a new online tool that lets families follow a patient’s progress through the emergency room in real time. By entering the patient’s tax code and admission number - printed on the wristband given at triage - users can see whether the patient is waiting, being examined, or undergoing tests, as well as the overall status of care until discharge. The system is designed to provide clear, transparent updates while protecting privacy. ULSS officials say the service aims to reduce stress for families and ease pressure on ER staff, who often face more than 200 daily visits in Vicenza. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Glasstress exhibit at Palazzo Thiene with free admission – December 15, VicenzaToday
A new edition of Glasstress is on view at the Gallerie di Palazzo Thiene in Vicenza until March 8, 2026. The exhibition highlights blown glass, cast glass and lampworking in contemporary art, bringing together Murano master glassmakers and international artists. The show features Venetian and Veneto artists, who will lead monthly lampworking demonstrations in the palace courtyard. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Bintar Gospel Festival in Roana with U.S. choirs – December 15, VicenzaToday
The Bintar Gospel Festival, billed as the first American mountain gospel festival, will take place through Jan. 5, 2026. The event brings choirs and artists from the United States to churches, theaters and piazzas across Roana and its hamlets. The program opened Dec. 27 in Roana with Real Gospel New Orleans, performing traditional Baptist church spirituals. On Dec. 30, God’s Angels will perform in Canove with a soul and funk revue. Cedric Shannon Rives will perform Jan. 3, 2026, in Camporovere, while the Rusty Brass Band brings New Orleans sounds to Treschè Conca Jan. 4. The festival closes Jan. 5 in Mezzaselva with The Women of God, honoring gospel legends Mahalia Jackson and Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Admission is free, subject to availability. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Exploring Breganze among hills and ancient villages– December 14, Il Giornale di Vicenza
In winter, when many paths are blocked by ice and snow, walkers turn to the easier trails of Alto Vicentino. Breganze offers several scenic routes rich in history and landscape. The first easy hilly route, stretching about 5.5 kilometers, is a path through the former town of Riva. The Degani Trail, a 3.5‑kilometer path, meanders through hills and offers sweeping panoramas, including Santa Lucia hill. Finally, the longer trail from Breganze to Maragnole and Mirabella extends for 13 kilometers, a countryside route linking hamlets, featuring the 15th‑century Vegra shrine. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)
Marian Jubilee to begin in February at Monte Berico – December 14, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Marian Jubilee Year marking the 600th anniversary of the apparitions at Monte Berico will open Feb. 8, 2026, with a Mass led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state. The jubilee will run 13 months, closing March 7, 2027, with more than 100 events already scheduled. Organizers hope the Pope may visit Vicenza, recalling John Paul II’s 1991 stop at Monte Berico and other city sites. Monte Berico will host an international Marian conference Feb. 6-8, concerts, art exhibits and cultural programs. Special jubilees will highlight groups including the sick, families, migrants, police and artists. Tens of thousands of pilgrims are expected. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Cinema Roma to reopen by Christmas in Vicenza – December 14, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Cinema Roma is set to reopen by Christmas after a €3.5 million renovation supported by ministry funds for historic theaters. The theater has been redesigned with five screening rooms and a capacity of 200 seats. One hall with 20 seats will be available for private groups. Programming is expected to feature “Avatar: Fire and Ashes” and Checco Zalone’s “Buen Camino.” The redesign emphasizes comfort, with reclining seats, tables and lights. A winter garden, lounge bar and restaurant will add new attractions, including live shows and sports screenings. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Limited Traffic Zone: about 90 violations a day – December 13, Il Giornale di Vicenza
In 2024, Vicenza’s local police recorded 32,682 violations of the Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), an average of nearly 90 unauthorized transits per day. Although the number shows a decrease compared to 2023, when fines reached 37,047, the offense remains among the most common. Violations in lanes reserved for public transport instead increased, rising to 24,387 from 23,531 the previous year. To improve compliance, new ZTL cameras will be activated at several exit points in the historic center. Established in 1996, the ZTL aims to protect environmental quality and preserve the city’s monumental urban area. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Vicenza to add cameras on bus lanes, ZTL exits – December 13, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The city has approved installation of 15 new cameras to monitor bus and taxi lanes and exits from the limited traffic zone, or ZTL. The €400,000 project will expand surveillance already in place on several streets, adding devices on Contrà San Francesco, Viale Milano and Piazza Matteotti. The plan also includes 12 cameras at ZTL exit points, automating controls that are now handled manually by local police. Rules introduced in 2020 remain unchanged, but enforcement will be more effective. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Basilica Palladiana to host “Olimpichetto” exhibit in Vicenza – December 10, VicenzaToday
Until Feb. 22, 2026, the Salone of the Basilica Palladiana will transform into a stage space for the exhibition “Olimpichetto. The Return of an Ambassador.” At the center of the show is the reconstruction of the Teatro Olimpico’s scenes and perspectives, created in 1948 to tour the world with Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex in a historic staging by director Guido Salvini, built in wood, canvas and plaster, designed to be dismantled and reassembled for travel. Admission to the exhibit and monument is free for residents of Vicenza and its province. More information is available at www.mostreinbasilica.it (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Campodalbero’s Nativity Trail offers a magical winter walk – December 2, VicenzaToday
Until Jan. 31, 2026, Campodalbero in Crespadoro hosts the Sentiero dei Presepi, a 10‑kilometer loop trail featuring handcrafted nativity scenes set among fountains, rocks, streams and mountain paths. The trail has about 500 meters of elevation gain and requires proper mountain footwear; it isn’t suitable for strollers. Hikers are advised to start before 1 p.m. to avoid nightfall in the woods. The walk takes about four hours. You can start from the church of Crespadoro that offers ample parking. Every Sunday in December, a Christmas market with handmade goods is held in Contrà Bauci, and refreshment points are available along the route on weekends. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Vicenza budget 2026: fines drive €6 million revenue, just €22,000 from speeding – December 10, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Vicenza city council recently approved the 2026 budget, projecting €6 million in traffic fine revenues, up from €5.7 million in 2025. Despite the increase, speeding fines are expected to plummet to €20,000, compared to €160,000 forecast last year. The drop reflects national traffic restrictions and the seizure of speed cameras on Via Aldo Moro, inactive since February due to a criminal investigation involving the system supplier. More than €3 million will be invested in safety: €762,000 for signage, €757,000 for vehicles and equipment and €1.5 million for road maintenance. Meanwhile, the Town Hall continues to forgo significant income, as more than 8,600 speeding violations recorded in 2024—valued at up to €400,000—are not generating revenue. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Monte Berico residents urge cameras after string of burglaries – December 8, Il Giornale di Vicenza
In Monte Berico, a wave of burglaries has alarmed residents, with at least six homes targeted in recent days. Thieves, believed to be a four-member gang traveling in a dark SUV, break in, ransack properties, and escape within minutes, stealing cash, jewelry and watches worth thousands of euros. The community has formed a committee and launched a petition urging the municipality to install surveillance cameras, license plate recognition systems and better lighting. More than 200 signatures were collected in 48 hours. City Council member Nicolò Naclerio stressed urgent action, especially ahead of the 2026 jubilee and Madonna anniversary events. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Olympic flame begins journey toward Cortina – December 6, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Olympic flame for the 2026 Milan‑Cortina Winter Games was lit Dec. 6 at Rome’s Quirinale Palace, with President Sergio Mattarella, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and other leaders present. Outgoing Veneto Governor Luca Zaia hailed Cortina’s unique role as a two‑time host, after staging the 1956 Games. The torch will pass through 110 provinces before reaching Cortina on Jan. 26, 2026, the 70th anniversary of those Games. Zaia said the event will reach 3.5 billion viewers and generate $5.3 billion in GDP. Preparations continue with challenges: seating limits at venues, ticketing, transport and delayed parking construction. Work on the bobsled track is complete, but cable car and shuttle plans remain unresolved. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Momentum builds for Valdastico Nord: €5B Vicenza–Brenner link – December 5, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Valdastico Nord (A31 extension) project gained momentum as Veneto’s new governor Alberto Stefani met Trentino president Maurizio Fugatti to establish a shared approach. Both leaders emphasized its strategic importance for easing traffic, boosting economy, and linking Veneto and Trentino more directly. The planned extension will connect Vicenza (Piovene Rocchette area) northwards into Trentino, ultimately linking with the A22 Brenner highway near Trento. Estimated at €5 billion, it promises faster connections, improved logistics and greater regional integration. Confindustria Vicenza applauded Stefani’s initiative, pledging full support. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Vicenza case sets precedent: DUI laws apply to e-scooters – December 2, VicenzaToday
Italy’s Supreme Court has ruled that drunk driving laws apply to electric scooters. The decision stems from a Vicenza case in which a man, intoxicated above the legal limit, caused a crash while riding an e-scooter. Lower courts convicted him, and the Court of Cassation upheld the ruling, rejecting the defense’s claim that scooters are not “vehicles” and confirming that DUI laws now fully extend to scooter riders. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
State Police expand YouPol app to trains to boost safety – December 2, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The State Police announced Dec. 1 that the YouPol app now extends to train passengers and stations, offering a fast, geolocated reporting system for risky situations, suspicious behavior, or critical issues. Users can send photos, videos, or short messages directly to Railway Police and police headquarters for immediate assessment and intervention. Since December 2024, YouPol has logged 46,877 general requests, 24,962 drug reports, 3,357 domestic violence cases and 3,648 bullying reports, mostly from northern and southern cities. Main users are aged 51–60 (100,000), followed by 18–30 (20,000) and minors (5,000). With 5,650 monthly anonymous reports, YouPol strengthens prevention and citizen-police collaboration. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Viale Roma transformation will link station and historic center – November 30, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Viale Roma is being transformed into a pedestrian lane, with work scheduled to finish by February 2026. The project will create a wide walkway between the train station and Porta Castello, highlighted by a central white stone strip aligned with Giardino Salvi. Road space has been narrowed to seven meters for two lanes, while pedestrian areas will expand to nearly 14 meters. The redesign aims to connect the historic center with the station and provide space for markets and events. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Hiking Civillina to Campogrosso, discovering the secrets of historic districts – December 7, Il Giornale di Vicenza
A challenging 16-kilometer hike with an elevation gain of 1,166 meters takes about four hours each way from Mount Civillina to Campogrosso, passing through the historic districts of Recoaro. The trailhead is reached by driving to Bonomini di San Quirico in Valdagno, then continuing toward Rovegliana and Retassene. The return follows the same route, so consider arranging a car for convenience. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)
The Blessed Claudio path between Treviso and Vicenza – November 23, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Blessed Claudio Path is a 189‑kilometer spiritual and cultural route linking 25 municipalities from Santa Lucia di Piave to Chiampo, honoring the life and mission of Blessed Claudio. Inaugurated in 2018, the trail winds through the provinces of Treviso and Vicenza along peaceful secondary roads, inviting pilgrims and travelers to explore the Veneto foothills on foot or by bike. Created by the municipalities of Chiampo and Santa Lucia, the project promotes sustainable tourism and culminates at the Chiampo sanctuary, the spiritual heart of the journey. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)
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