Nativity Scenes: Italian Presepi

What are presepi?

Italian presepi are nativity sets. A single set is a “presepe.” 

Are presepi a small, local tradition?

Presepi are famous around the world. Some travelers go to Italy during December just to see these popular displays of Christ’s birth. 

Are all presepi religious?

Presepi are religious works of art in the sense that they represent the Biblical story of Jesus Christ’s birth. On the other hand, the displays may incorporate non-religious themes.

These elaborate nativity displays may be traditional, recreating the Biblical story of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem. They may have lots of attention given to representing a 1st-century Hebrew town.

The displays may also be inventive, integrating modern characters or atypical settings.

An Italian presepe  is often quite elaborate.

An internet search for “presepe photos” gives results that show large table-top displays, arrangements that cover multiple hills, and even one underwater.

Compared to most home nativity sets found in the United States, presepi are lavish constructions used to celebrate Christmas.