Spectacular Neapolitan Nativity

The Nativity detail (click to enlarge each photo)

This spectacular display was set up at the Cathedral of Mdina, the creation of Fr Edgar Vella and some friends who helped him set it up. This monumental Neapolitan crib has no less than 200 original and authentic presepio figurines which render the setting as the most colorful and dramatic interpretation of the Nativity of Our Lord. The most particular element in this tradition is that the Neapolitans uprooted the nativity scene from Palestine and implanted it in the core of their city bustling with activity, noise, and charm. 

The various characters present an ongoing day in the life of Naples, 200 years ago. The Holy Family is set in the ruins of a pagan temple symbolizing the new era of Christianity which takes over the ancient pagan religion. The nativity is surmounted by a glorious host of angels and cherubs cascading over the newborn Messiah.

The entire display for everyone to admire