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On December 8, the Nativity Scene and tree in St. Peter’s Square were solemnly inaugurated. A majestic 29-meter-tall Norway Spruce, donated by the community of Ledro in Trentino and responsibly harvested according to ecological principles of natural forest regeneration, was presented in the presence of the heads of the Vatican City Governorate and the donating delegations. 

This year’s nativity scene showcases a piece of the Grado Lagoon from the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, highlighting maritime traditions and authentic lagoon-inspired settings. 

Continuing tradition, the nativity display is complemented by an exhibition of 100 nativity scenes, renewing its cherished presence in St. Peter's Square once again this year. 

Catherine, a volunteer at “100 Presepi in Vaticano,” or “100 Nativity Scenes in the Vatican,” shared, “This year we have 130 nativity scenes, and there are 21 countries that have brought their own nativity scenes. There’s a very beautiful one inside an iron or even inside a shell. Then the Italian nativity scenes, the classic ones, are truly stunning.” 

One visitor to the exhibition, Simona, said, “We liked the one made by my daughters’ school in Orbassano, here in Rome, the most. That’s why we came specifically to see it. The others are also beautiful, of course, but for us, the most special one is theirs because it was made by the children.” 

Massimiliano, one of the artisans of a nativity scene, shared, “I’ve already had the pleasure of exhibiting twice at the 100 Nativity Scenes in the Vatican. The first experience, in 2019, was truly unforgettable. It was such an incredible emotion when Pope Francis arrived and stopped in front of my nativity scene. And why was he so amazed and delighted? Because I had introduced a sort of innovation—by pressing certain buttons, the nativity scenes would come to life. He was as delighted as a child, and for me, it was an immense satisfaction.” 

Massimiliano highlighted, “Christmas is joy and a message, and the nativity scene embodies that message. We nativity scene artisans dedicate ourselves wholeheartedly—not just for a season, but practically 365 days a year—building, creating, and inventing new ideas for the following year.” 

Simona also shared, “Christmas is emotion, joy, peace, the birth of Baby Jesus. Each time, it marks the beginning of a new era for us.” 

Vanessa, another visitor to the exhibition, said, “It's a time to be with family and to celebrate what we believe in.” 

Adapted by Jacob Stein 

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