Religion in Italy
The majority religion in Italy is Catholicism. There are also a smaller minority of Protestants, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Sikhs.
The Early Church
The Romans were pagans. They believed in many gods and goddesses. Christians were persecuted in Ancient Rome but gradually the Romans turned to Christianity. The Romans spread Christianity all over their empire. The emperor, Constantine, issued an edict that everyone was free to practice their own religion.
The Romans were pagans. They believed in many gods and goddesses. Christians were persecuted in Ancient Rome but gradually the Romans turned to Christianity. The Romans spread Christianity all over their empire. The emperor, Constantine, issued an edict that everyone was free to practice their own religion.
Many people visit the square each year to see the beautiful churches and to hear the Pope speak. They gather in Saint Peter's Square.
The Pope speaks from the balcony of Saint Peter's Basilica.
There are many paintings and frescoes in the churches.
There are also lovely tapestries hung on the walls.
Beautiful chalices like these are used during Mass.
Many of the festivals held in Italy are religious festivals. Click on the photograph of the crib to read about them.