Sometimes all it takes is an idea. A bold, visionary idea. One that manages to inspire and convince—despite its madness—a group of people who begin to imagine it, design it, and bring it to life: why not build a giant Christmas tree on the mountain?

That’s pretty much how it happened. Someone thought of it—and then actually did it.

Since 1981, our city has been gently lit during the holidays, and we all feel like we’re living in a beautiful open-air Nativity scene.

The Christmas Tree of Gubbio, located on the southwestern slope of Mount Ingino, is a stunning installation of colored lights that outlines the shape of a gigantic Christmas tree. Over 300 lights define the silhouette, and another 400 illuminate it from within. The star crowning the tree is placed on the Rocca at the top of Mount Ingino.

The tree has been listed in the Guinness World Records since 1991 and is one of Gubbio’s main tourist attractions, drawing thousands of visitors every year.

To bring this incredible creation to life, it takes 1,300 hours of work and 8,500 meters of electrical cables—an effort made possible thanks to a remarkable spirit of volunteerism. The volunteers are affectionately known as the “Alberaioli,” and each year they offer their time and dedication. The Alberaioli form a true committee of 50 members, both young and old, all united by the same spirit of cooperation.

The atmosphere of light and hope that the Gubbio Christmas season brings is truly one of a kind. Around this spectacular tree, numerous events have grown over time, making a Christmas holiday in Gubbio even more magical: markets, a Ferris wheel, nativity scenes, light installations, projection mapping, and food & wine experiences.

If you’re looking for peaceful emotions with a touch of enchantment, remember that the tree can be admired and photographed from afar—but with a simple walk, you can literally step inside it. Walking in the dark, on the mountain, surrounded by the scent of trees and the soft glow of colored lights, is a truly immersive experience.