Rome mayor unveils carbon-free Xmas tree

Rome was lit up by the dazzling glow of Christmas on Thursday evening as the lights on a carbon free festive tree were switched on.

The city's mayor Roberto Gualtieri turned on the lights of the 22 meters high tree, which for the first time will be powered by solar panels and lithium batteries. According to local authorities, the solar system will allow an energy saving of 27 kilowatt-hour a day.

Thousands of residents attended the lighting ceremony, joining the countdown and taking photos as the Christmas festivities kicked off in the Italian capital.