Starting December 22, visitors can look underground at part of an ancient Roman wealthy neighborhood near the Roman Forum that's been excavated beneath the 16th century Palazzo Valentini, Via IV Novembre, 119. Two villas dating from the second through fourth centuries have been uncovered, one with a floor made of 500,000 multicolored mosaic tiles. The interesting exhibit is free but reservations are necessary and can be made by phoning 199.199.111. You can see a little of the site on this video on Roma Uno (in Italian).
100 Presepi, Italian nativity scenes, are on display in Sale del Bramante at Piazza del Popolo through January 6, 2008. There are presepi from each of Italy's 20 regions and from other parts of the world. Read more about the Italian tradition of Presepi and where to see them.
More about Rome: Top Ancient Rome Sites | Rome Picture Gallery
It’s also fun to tour Rome’s churches and see the presepi on display. Some churches display antique presepi, while others create a presepe that reflects something unique about the church. Saint Louis, the French church, for example, displays traditional santons. The year we did this wonderful trek, Chiesa San Silvestro had a presepe with a Filipino theme because the church’s resident priests are missionaries to various countries, including the Philippines. Don’t miss the chance to participate in a true Italian Christmas tradition.