One of Abruzzo’s often-overlooked assets is its proximity to Rome, the Eternal City. It really is a hop, skip, and a jump away. You can drive in, or better still, drop the car and take a coach, which works out cheaper and is, of course, a greener way to travel.
Last night we headed to the Vatican to watch ‘Grace for the World’ for free in St. Peter’s Square, which was nothing short of phenomenal. The setting alone was breathtaking, but what made it truly special was the diverse lineup of extraordinary artists from around the globe, all carrying messages of unity and hope. Andrea Bocelli’s voice opened the concert with Amazing Grace soaring over the square, while John Legend, Teddy Swims, Karol G, and many others brought their own magic. A couple of my favourite moments? Watching a group of nuns next to me dance away to Angélique Kidjo and then to Pharrell Williams’ singing “Happy” backed by a gospel choir in the piazza at St Peter’s was as unforgettable as the performances themselves (2.05 hrs and 45 seconds into the stream). Representing Abruzzo was Il Volo’s Gianluca Ginoble, who sang the Magnificat. Watch the recording to see the spectacular drone art that accompanied the performances, too!
Watch The Concert for Free
Alongside the music were powerful words from speakers, including Graça Machel, widow of Nelson Mandela and a key figure in South Africa’s constitutional assembly. She spoke with such clarity about leaders’ responsibility to “re-design the world” so that people everywhere can have work, food, and shelter. Several Nobel laureates also attended, underlining the global significance of the event. A
In a world where the rich and powerful often thrive on division, it was profoundly moving to be part of a gathering centred on hope, unity, and action. The concert formed part of a wider conference, called by Pope Leo, dedicated to exploring local and international ways of developing new forms of social charity, including how AI can best be harnessed to serve humanity rather than ruling it.
Author: Sam Dunham
Sam is a freelance SEO content creator and IGCSE Geography and English teacher at Istituto Cristo Re in Rome. She also runs the Life In Abruzzo Cultural Association, sharing stories and insights about this captivating region.
Alongside raising a teenager, Sam hosts guests at her family’s traditional home, the Little House of the Firefly in Abruzzo, offering a warm welcome and insider tips on local culture, food, and hidden gems.
