In Greccio, the Living Nativity of St. Francis

Christmas 1223, Greccio. St. Francis celebrates Christmas Mass in a small cave where, with the help of the nobleman Giovanni Velita, he recreates the Nativity, with an ox and a donkey and a terracotta Baby Jesus. It is the first Living Crib in history. Today, more than 800 years later, thanks to the efforts of the Pro Loco volunteers, the Living Crib of Greccio continues to unite the community and welcome worshippers, families and wonder-seekers among its ancient streets. The whole village celebrates Christmas with markets, the ever-present food stands and the Nativity Museum. The evocative living pictures are staged outdoors at the foot of the Franciscan Shrine, a couple of kilometers from the historic center, at 10:40 p.m. on Christmas Eve and at 5:40 p.m. on other days; reservations are recommended online at the Pro Loco.