There are many presepi (nativity scenes) in Italy and the nativity scenes in Florence fully respect the art, culture and rich traditions of the city.
This tradition has endured through the centuries and it is now a foundamental part of the Christmas season. The nativity scenes in Florence are intricate displays of the captivating representation of the birth of Jesus Christ, reflecting both religious devotion and artistic brilliance. Florence, with its deep-rooted connection to the Renaissance, boasts some of the most exquisite nativity scenes that tell a tale of history, spirituality, and artistic mastery.
History of Nativity Scenes
The tradition of nativity scenes dates back to the 13th century, credited to Saint Francis of Assisi. Seeking to bring the Christmas story to life for the people, he organized the first nativity scene in Greccio, Umbria, in 1223. Over time, this practice spread across Europe, becoming a cherished Christmas tradition. Italy saw the nativity scene evolve into an art form, with skilled craftsmen and artists contributing to the creation of elaborate displays.
Normally nativity scenes are dispalyed inside churches and the Medieval and Renaissance churches of Florence contribute to creating the very best Christmas athmosphere.
Let me just mention some of the nativity scenes in Florence I like best
Nativity Scene in Santa Croce
I need to start from the nativity scenes in the Basilica di Santa Croce. Known as the Temple of the Italian Glories because it is the burial place of very impostant Italian people, among the others of Michelangelo, Galileoand Machiavelli. Santa Croce normally hosts an annual nativity scene that captures the essence of both the sacred and the artistic. But 2023 is the Franciscan celebraion year: 800 years from the first Greccio naitivity scene done by Saint Francis.
So this year the Franciscan Community, the Opera di Santa Croce and the Italian Association of Friends of the Nativity Scene display 15 nativity scenes in the basilica.
You can admire a large wooden nativity scene, sculpted by Roberto Giovannoni, right by the area of the main altar, while another artist, Marco Bonechi, has prepared some glazed ceramic tiles. The other nativity scenes are very classical folk figures, another one is set in Palestine, another one is a Sicilian nativity scene and others are made with natural materials.
The nativity scene exhibition remains open until January 6th, entry is free for visitors who are residents of Florence.
As visitors explore the nativity scenes in the Basilica di Santa Croce, they find themselves not only witnessing a religious tableau but also stepping into many living work of art. The interplay between the Gothic architecture the fantastic golden paintings and the exquisite craftsmanship of the nativity scene creates a magical atmosphere, inviting contemplation and reflection on the timeless story of Christmas. In this revered setting, the annual nativity scene in Santa Croce becomes more than a visual spectacle; it becomes a profound and immersive journey through the intersection of faith and art in the heart of Florence.
Santo Spirito’s Artistic Elegance
The Basilica di Santo Spirito, another jewel in Florence’s ecclesiastical crown, is home to a nativity scene that exemplifies artistic elegance. Situated in the Oltrarno district, Santo Spirito is known for its simple yet profound approach to spirituality and because it hosts the wooden crucifix by Mcihelangelo. This is one of his early wroks and a very unusual one!
The Santo Spirito nativity scene 2023 is the work of Maestro Albino Todeschini and it is set up right in front of the main door of the church.
What makes this nativity scene unique, in addition to the beauty of the figurines, is the snow falling on the Bethlehem hut, very beautiful! This really helps visitors to connect with the narrative on a deeper level. Santo Spirito’s nativity scene stands as a testament to the power of art to evoke emotion and convey spiritual messages with subtlety.
The admission to the church is free.
Cathedral Splendor
No exploration of Florence’s nativity scenes would be complete without a visit to the iconic Florence Cathedral, or Il Duomo. The Cathedral, with its magnificent dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, provides a grand setting for a nativity scene that captures the grandeur of the Christmas story.
The nativity scene of the Duomo is displayed on the outside of the cathedral and it shows a large nativity scene with life-size terracotta statues. These are unique terracotta pieces handmade by the artisan Luigi Mariani with Impruneta terracotta and donated to the Cathedral. There is a second nativity scene is set up inside the Cathedral. They are visible until the Epiphany.
Hotel Rivoli, Florence
The Rivoli Boutique Hotel offers a unique perspective on nativity scenes as it is not located in a church. While the hotel was originally a convent and still retains its spaces and a sense of the past, it remains, nonetheless, a hotel!
For the past 12 years, the common areas of the hotel have been transformed into an immense exhibition of handmade nativity scenes by Claudio Ladurini. There are over 30 works of art that literally invade the hotel’s common spaces, providing a unique glimpse into the art of nativity scenes. Admission is free, but donations are matched by the Caridi family and directed to the Tommasino Bacciotti Foundation.
In conclusion, Florence’s nativity scenes not only celebrate the religious significance of Christmas but also serve as a testament to the city’s enduring artistic legacy. From the grandeur of Santa Croce and the artistic elegance of Santo Spirito to the splendor of the Cathedral and the hidden gems scattered throughout the city, each nativity scene tells a unique story. As visitors wander through these enchanting displays, they are not only immersed in the beauty of the Renaissance but also invited to contemplate the timeless tale of the Nativity, a story that continues to captivate hearts and minds across the centuries. Florence, with its nativity scenes, beckons travelers to experience the magic of Christmas in a setting where art, history, and spirituality converge in perfect harmony.