Calendar Men: Real Pope, Fake Priests - Rome’s *Calendario Romano* Returns for 2026 With New Priest Lookalikes
Rome’s famous Calendario Romano has returned for 2026, featuring a new set of men dressed as priests. The calendar remains a hit with tourists, despite most models not being actual clergy. This year, it faces fresh competition from rival calendars, including one backed by the Vatican itself.
The Calendario Romano has been a staple souvenir since its launch, showcasing a different attractive man in black clerical attire each month. Giovanni Galizia, a flight attendant, has been its cover star since 2004. Yet, like many of the models, he holds no religious office.
The publisher of the Gregorian Calendar—a similar product—also refuses to confirm whether its models are real priests. Both calendars rely on mystery, with identities kept secret. Pricing adds another twist: the Gregorian undercuts the original at eight euros, while the classic Roman Calendar sells for nine.
This year’s selection includes two calendars featuring black-robed priests, the Vatican’s official Leo Calendar, and several imported from China. One even honours Pope John Paul II. Notably absent is a calendar for Pope Benedict XVI, deemed ‘not worth it anymore’ by the Vatican bookshop near St. Peter’s Basilica.
The 2026 calendar market in Rome offers more choices than ever, from unofficial pin-up versions to Vatican-approved alternatives. The Calendario Romano keeps its appeal, though its models remain firmly outside the clergy. Meanwhile, the Gregorian Calendar continues to outsell its rival, proving price and tradition still matter.
