Living Nativity Scene in the Abbey of San Savino

The living nativity scene in the setting of the Badia di San Savino takes place on 3rd and 4th January with over 100 costumed figures and set in the year zero, it retraces the Nativity of Christ, from the census to the arrival of the Magi, re-proposing village life with markets and ancient trades.

The route winds its way up the steps of the abbey to King Herod’s palace and on to the hut, where Mary and Joseph keep vigil over Jesus, and the Wise Men in procession bring gold, frankincense and myrrh.

The entire village lives the nativity scene intensely, so much so that the equipment, sets and costumes are made entirely by the community. At the entrance, in the courtyard of the Badia, visitors are welcomed and registered by census officials; then they begin their journey among craftsmen, women, shepherds, merchants and pipers who recreate the typical Christmas atmosphere.

* photo: Stefano Scafuri