Christmas in Rome

International Nativity Scene Exhibition
“He was born for us. God’s gaze is in the eyes of Jesus.”

From November 30, 2024, to February 2, 2025
at the Basilica of Sant’Andrea della Valle.
Free admission
Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM (continuous)

Special Event:
Wednesday, December 17, at 8:00 PM
Concert featuring the Vatican Gendarmerie Band and the Maltese Band, accompanied by the choir of the Papal Basilica of San Paolo Fuori Le Mura.

As part of the Jubilee 2025 celebrations, the International Federation of Friends of the Crib “Un. Fœ. Præ.”, in collaboration with the Maltese Crib Association Ghaqda Hbieb Tal-Presepju of Gozo – Malta and the Maltese Embassy to the Holy See, is proud to present an international Nativity scene exhibition in the magnificent Basilica of Sant’Andrea della Valle, located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele. This basilica is also the General Headquarters of the Theatine Order of Clerics Regular.

The exhibition showcases Nativity scenes from 17 countries, representing 21 national associations worldwide, including A.I.A.P. (the Italian Association of Friends of the Crib).

Walking through the basilica, visitors will encounter 40 Nativity scenes, exploring various styles and materials. Highlights include:

• Spanish and Catalan dioramas,
• Wooden cribs from Tyrol and South Tyrol,
• Painted and carved silhouettes, including one over six meters wide,
• A French crib featuring Provençal santons.
  Visitors will also admire two large Biblical-style scenes crafted by Maltese Nativity artisans, a magnificent depiction of the Night of Greccio where St. Francis embraces Baby Jesus, and works from regions such as Rhineland-Westphalia, Bavaria, Belgium, Slovenia, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
  Additionally, the exhibition includes Nativity representations from across the ocean, featuring cribs from Peru, Argentina, Colombia, the United States, and the Amazon.

Pier Luigi Bombelli, Vice President of Un. Fœ. Præ., explains:
“The primary goal of Un. Fœ. Præ. is to spread awareness of the Nativity scene and introduce it to an ever-growing audience. Our Federation values diversity, respecting differences in social status, gender, or age. We aim to connect people through diverse experiences, offering human and cultural enrichment. In today’s fast-paced world, marked by the tragedy of wars, there is no greater symbol of harmony and peace than the Nativity. Together with all the National Associations, the Federation hopes that this period of grace, offered by the Church through the Jubilee, will be a moment for reflection on the true meaning of life and the path we are all invited to take to build a future of peace in a challenging world. Our wish is also our prayer.”