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I.E.S. “Luis de Morales” Arroyo de la Luz. Cáceres. Spain

Christmas: Spanish Traditions

The Nativity Scene

What is it?

One of the most popular traditions in Spain is to place a nativity scene at Christmas. But only a few know that this custom was a brainchild of San Francisco de Asis.


Why?

In 1223 San Francisco de Asis began with the tradition of the stables or cribs in a chapel of Greccio (Italy). At first, the nativity scene was performed by people inside a stable with real animals instead of ceramics or clay figures.


When?

The crib is placed before Christmas, traditionally on December 8th, coinciding with the feast of the Inmaculate Conception and it stays till February 2nd, day of the presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the catholic feast of the Candelaria. The figures of the Three Wise Men are added from the feast of the Epiphany, on January 6th.

How can we make a nativity scene?

1 - Decide the place where you want to place your crib.
2 - Start with the ground.
3 - You need moss for the ground, sand for the paths and foil for the rivers.
4 - Place the buildings (houses, castle, stable, etc)
5 - Then put the figures (shepherds, animals, etc)
6 - Add a personal touch. It is very nice to put a star at the bottom of the stable, on top of it.


You can colour and cut out this Nativity Scene: Pobierz_Download

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