Alghero Christmas Tree Sparks Political Uproar, Echoes Rome’s “Spelacchio” Controversy
A heated debate over a newly erected Christmas tree in Alghero’s Piazza Porta Terra has ignited a political and civil conflict, drawing comparisons to a similar controversy that unfolded in Rome several years ago. The tree, intended as a festive centerpiece for the historic city, has instead become a symbol of discontent, with critics deriding its appearance and questioning the city’s direction.
The controversy stems from the tree’s perceived shortcomings. Many residents have described the installation as “short, bare and crammed in,” arguing it resembles a “makeshift installation” rather than a traditional Christmas symbol capable of inspiring holiday cheer. This dissatisfaction has led to the ironic nickname “Sfigalbero” – roughly translated as “unlucky tree” – coined by a local reform group.
The situation evokes memories of Rome in 2017, when a sparsely decorated fir tree, installed during the tenure of then-Mayor Virginia Raggi, became a European sensation for its unadorned simplicity. The Roman tree, dubbed “Spelacchio” (Big Bald One), sparked widespread ridicule and became a focal point for criticism of the city’s administration. Alghero residents now fear a similar outcome.
City councilor Enrico Daga has defended the decision to opt for a less conventional Christmas tree, framing it as a bold step toward innovation. “When a city tries to change, to break out of routine and experiment with new forms of expression, it is normal that not everything pleases everyone,” Daga stated. “But this is a sign that Alghero is alive, that it dares and is not content to simply repeat what it has already done.”
The debate highlights a broader tension within Alghero – a struggle between tradition and a desire for modernization. While some residents embrace the city’s willingness to experiment, others lament the loss of familiar holiday traditions. The “Sfigalbero” controversy underscores the challenges of balancing these competing values and the potential for even seemingly innocuous decisions, like the selection of a Christmas tree, to become flashpoints for political and social debate.
