With the arrival of December, many homes renew a tradition loved by adults and children alike: the Advent calendar. But how did this custom begin? What are its origins and the curiosities that make it so special?

From religious roots to the first forms of calendar

The Advent calendar has ancient origins that are rooted in Christian tradition. The term “Advent” comes from the Latin adventus , which means “coming,” and was the period of preparation for the celebration of Christmas. As early as the 19th century, in Germany, children counted the days that separated them from the birth of Jesus Christ by drawing a line on the wall or lighting a candle for each day of December.

The first documented printed Advent calendar dates back to 1902, created by Gerhard Lang, a publisher from Munich. Inspired by the calendars his mother made for him as a child, Lang transformed this home tradition into a commercial product: a card with 24 windows to open each day.

The symbolism of windows

The Advent calendar windows represent a daily journey to discover Christmas. Each window contains a symbol or a surprise: a drawing, a Bible verse, a small sweet treat. Over the years, the calendars have evolved, incorporating chocolates, toys, and more recently, even luxury items such as cosmetics and jewelry.

Curiosities and modern versions

Did you know that the world's largest Advent calendar was built in Leipzig in 2018? It measured over 800 square meters and was decorated with images representing the city and Christmas tradition. Another curiosity concerns the first digital Advent calendar, which began to spread with the advent of the Internet in the 2000s, bringing the magic of waiting to electronic devices.

Today, the Advent calendar is not just a tradition for children: there are versions aimed at adults, with craft beers, specialty coffees or even gourmet items. This transformation testifies to the versatility of an idea that continues to fascinate and renew itself.

Why is the Advent calendar so popular?

The success of the Advent calendar lies in its ability to create anticipation and wonder. Opening a window a day becomes a ritual that unites the family and strengthens the bond with the deepest meaning of Christmas: sharing and the joy of discovery.

Thus, between tradition and modernity, the Advent calendar remains a window on time, an invitation to experience the month of December with a pinch of magic.

The Jubilee Official Store Calendar

We too, who love traditions, have thought of an Advent calendar dedicated to all the pilgrims who will come to Rome to celebrate this unique event. Every week, by following our social profiles or subscribing to our newsletter you can discover the offers that are hidden behind the boxes of our splendid Advent calendar... Enjoy your journey everyone!