The “presepe or presepio” is an Italian Christmas tradition reputed
to date back to the 13th century, a custom started by Francis of
Assisi. Examples can be found all over
Italy in the few weeks leading up to Christmas.
What, you may be asking, is a presepe? It’s a presentation
of the nativity scene, and they come in all shapes and sizes in Italy. There is a life size model every year outside
the Vatican, and many churches have a presepe set up either outside them or
sometimes inside. Here for example are a couple of photos taken
of a presepe at a church in Gubbio in Umbria.
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| Presepe in Gubbio |
This one came complete with special lighting effects so that the sun
rose and set behind the scene, and music played softly in the background.
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| Presepe in Gubbio |
Many homes have a scene set up alongside the
Christmas tree, and again special lighting effects, moving parts are not
uncommon. Some presepe are made up of
figurines that are true collectors items, incredibly detailed works of art made
by well-known artisans. If you want to
take a closer look at examples of some of these, click
here. Perhaps the most unusual presepio I saw this
year was at a seaside resort less than an hour’s drive from Rome.
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| Sand sculpture presepio |
This one was found in a tent outside the
church across the road from the beach and was made of sand. I’ve only ever seen a sand sculpture before
on T.V., never in real life, so when Vito told me he’d seen it on a walk with
MIL one morning, I went down to have a look.
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| Sand sculpture presepio |
I was surprised at how big it was, and how it managed to stay in one
piece! I was also very glad I’d taken
the time to take a look. As you can see,
it’s simple, and yet quite detailed.
Certainly the first time I’ve seen one like this, but then every year
seems to bring me face to face with a style of presepe I haven’t seen
before. Like this one, given to us as a
present last year. Good enough to
eat!
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| Presepe good enough to eat! |
If you want to know more about the history of the presepe
and different styles,
click here, and
here
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