The living nativity scene
One of the oldest and most ancestral Christmas traditions, the living nativity scene It's a life-size reconstruction of all the typical elements of a nativity scene; but instead of figurines, there are real people.
It creates a magical atmosphere, which takes you back in time, to the discovery not only of religiosity, but also of the life of the past, with now extinct professions, ancient clothes, poor and realistic settings.
Numerous cities organize these historical-religious events every year. Among the most characteristic are: Matera , which sets up its themed "Sassi", Martina Franca , with its medieval historic centre, Alberobello , where you can also listen to ancient music among the magnificent trulli.
A fundamental component of the living nativity scene are the Ancient crafts . They evoke the atmosphere of times gone by by recreating scenes of work and everyday life. Observing the skill with which the participants work allows us to reflect on the dedication our ancestors put into their crafts; it is also a very educational experience for children, who learn from the tenacity and strength of spirit evoked by these characters.
In the suggestive courtyards where the living nativity scenes are usually set up, among the various trades there is no shortage of those associated with the Animals : sheep herding and livestock farming were traditional occupations in the past. For both adults and children, it's always a pleasure to admire these animals up close, and even more so knowing that they're usually provided by authentic local farmhouses and farms.
For more information on the Christmas period in Puglia, you can visit the website www.pugliaetmores.it .
Source: Nonno Michele Editorial Staff