Traditional Italian Nativity Scenes / Presepi italiani

Traditional Italian nativity scenes and regional figurine displays

Exhibition curated by Giuseppe Giansiracusa

FREE EXHIBITION

Tuesday to Friday 10am-5pm; Saturday 12pm-5pm

Italian Nativity Scenes are a classic Christmas icon associated with Italian communities worldwide. During the Christmas period the Museo Italiano at Co.As.It. is proud to showcase a full nativity scene and figures from nativity scenes from several different regional traditions.

For many Italian families the preparation and setting up of the nativity scene is a yearly ritual that brings together different generations in the family. It is the creation of a sacred space, set aside to the memory of the birth of Jesus. Not a uniquely Italian tradition, nativity scenes developed through the centuries in many different directions, closely related to the
people, their spirituality and culture. The sacred representation is brought to life with principal characters, secondary ones, places and situations – all imbued with poetry and symbolism.

Also on display at the Museo Italiano are hundreds of figurines from many different regions including Sicily, Naples, Florence and Trentino-Alto Adige, as well as figures made of many different materials including the original ceramic, terracotta and timber.

All Figures and Nativity Scene items were kindly loaned by The Amici Del Presepio – Friends of the Christmas Crib Association, Inc.