Having become a symbol of Naples, the 18th-century Neapolitan nativity scene is not only a religious representation of the Nativity, but also a veritable miniature theater. Scenes from everyday life blend with profound religious meaning, giving life to an extraordinary work of art that combines religiosity, folklore, and craftsmanship.
Born in a period of great artistic and spiritual ferment, the 18th-century nativity scene became a symbol of Baroque Naples, capable of blending the sacred and the profane, heaven and earth, nobility and the people.
The tradition of the nativity scene, however, began to spread in Italy in the 13th century. But it was in the 18th century that it reached its peak in Naples, with Charles III of Bourbon. Who promoted the arts and encouraged the creation of a refined and original school of nativity scene making. In this climate, the nativity scene became a widespread passion. Not only an object of devotion in churches and convents, but also a source of pride in many aristocratic and non-aristocratic homes in Naples. A passion and devotion that has since been handed down from generation to generation, becoming an essential element in all Neapolitan homes, and not only during the Christmas period.
But what are the characteristics that make the 18th-century nativity scene unique in the world?
Features of the 18th-century Nativity Scene
First of all, the 18th-century nativity scene stands out for its rich scenery, extraordinary attention to detail, but above all for the great manual skills of its craftsmen.
It is precisely thanks to the great passion of these men and women that the 18th-century nativity scene has become a work of art admired throughout the world.
Scenes of daily life in markets, taverns, and shops blend harmoniously with the great religious significance of the Holy Family, the angels, and the birth of Jesus Christ.
A unique setting created mainly with recycled materials such as tree bark, cork, cardboard, and moss, but also with terracotta, plaster, fabric, and metal.
Simple materials that, thanks to the great manual skills of its artisans, come to life and manage to convey the true meaning of the nativity scene. Each scene, each character, each element becomes a means of telling stories, expressing feelings, and reflecting on everyday life. All set in 18th-century Naples, among ancient crafts (such as the carpenter, the shoemaker, the fishmonger, and the laundress) and traditions (such as card games and the woman crocheting).
In short, it is a real spectacle to be admired and not to be missed, especially for those visiting Naples during the Christmas period.
But where can you find the most beautiful nativity scenes in Naples?
Where to find nativity scenes in Naples
There is no shortage of nativity scenes in Naples, but the most beautiful ones can be admired:
- In the San Martino Museum, where the prestigious Cuciniello nativity scene, created by the great Michele Cuciniello in 1879, is on display. This great work of art is divided into three scenes, corresponding to the three traditional episodes that make up the “story” of the nativity scene: the Annunciation to the shepherds, the Nativity, and the Tavern. It is enriched by about 800 figurines, including shepherds, animals, and accessories, which the collector donated to the state.
- The Palatine Chapel in the Royal Palace of Naples, where the nativity scene owned by the Banco di Napoli is on display. Between the silhouette of Vesuvius and the ruins of a Roman temple, this spectacular 18th-century nativity scene comes to life. Made up of 210 shepherds and animals and 144 accessorie. It was produced by various sculptors working in Naples, such as Giuseppe Sanmartino, Angelo and Francesco Viva, Salvatore Di Franco.
- In the Royal Palace of Caserta, specifically in the elliptical hall, you can see the royal nativity scene of the Bourbons. A tradition that began with King Charles, who devoted himself to it with the collaboration of Queen Maria Amalia of Saxony. She personally chose the shepherds’ clothes and sewed them throughout the year. The tradition of setting up the nativity scene was passed down to Ferdinand IV and his heirs and later followed by noble families. Made with prestigious materials, such as silk from San Leucio and filigree or coral jewelry. Numerous artists participated, including Mosca, Sanmartino, and Celebrano, who modeled the most important characters in terracotta.
- Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità, in the Sanità district of Naples, where you can admire the fabulous nativity scene. A permanent work donated by the Scuotto brothers, who collaborated on its creation with nativity scene artist Biagio Roscigno. A monumental nativity scene over 2 meters high and 3.5 meters wide, composed of more than 100 shepherds, as well as numerous animals and accessories.
- But during the Christmas period, a visit to the crowded but charming street of nativity scenes, San Gregorio Armeno, is a must. Every year, it enchants and leaves visitors speechless. Here, among shops, traditional and modern nativity scenes, and nativity scenes of all sizes, you can breathe in the true spirit of Neapolitan Christmas.
