There was festive cheer in Rome on Monday as trees and decorations lit up the historic center for Christmas.

The mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, switched on the Christmas tree lights in Piazza del Popolo along with the festive lights that run through the historic center.

The 20 metre high tree was decorated with 100,000 LEDs.

Thousands of people gathered to watch the lights being turned on and to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere.

“We are living in a difficult moment where there is a strong call for peace,” said Valeria Ascione, one of the many people attending the event.

“There’s no need to fight or have conflicts,” added Giuseppe Marrazzo, a young man from Calabria.

AP video and production by Veronica Andrea Sauchelli