The Vatican’s nativity scene, inspired by Greccio but distinct in its composition, departs from the live animals and people featured in St. Francis’s original.
Crafted by the renowned Neapolitan sculptor Antonio Cantone, the scene showcases life-sized terracotta figures.
At its heart lies an empty manger, awaiting the placement of a figurine representing the newborn savior on Christmas Eve.
Positioned beside the manger are depictions of Mary and Joseph on one side, with St. Francis of Assisi on the other, captured in a posture of awe.
Adding a historical touch, the scene incorporates statues of Giovanni Velita, the 13th-century mayor of Greccio who played a pivotal role in organizing the inaugural nativity scene, along with his wife, Alticama.
Additionally, three Franciscan friars, tasked by St. Francis to establish the initial nativity scene for contemplation of the Incarnate Lord’s poverty, are also portrayed.
The backdrop of the scene faithfully replicates the fresco adorning the Chapel of the Nativity in Greccio, nestled in the grotto where St. Francis first introduced the nativity tradition.
This fresco captures St. Francis in adoration of the Christ child on one side, while on the other, Mary tends to the newborn savior as Joseph, the ox, and the donkey observe.
Conclusion:
The Vatican’s nativity scene not only pays homage to the historical roots of the tradition but also brings to life the cherished figures and moments associated with its inception.
The use of terracotta figures and the replication of the Greccio fresco add layers of authenticity and reverence to this annual display.
Share on Facebook «||»
Share on Twitter «||»
Share on Reddit «||»
Share on LinkedIn
Rustic Roadside Birth: Shinead Welsh Delivers Baby Alfie in a Mini Cooper, Greeted by Cows in an Unexpected Nativity-Like Scene: Unexpected Roadside Birth Shinead Welsh, 32, from Sharpness, Gloucestershire, unexpectedly gave birth to her first child, Alfie, in the back of a Mini Cooper while...
Pastor of Catholic Church, New Jersey, pray Our Lady of Fatima stolen statue is returned before Sept. 8 celebration of Mary’s Nativity: The pastor of St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church in Gibbsboro, New Jersey, is hoping that the parish’s stolen Our Lady of Fatima statue will be recovered before the Nativity...
Sallah homage goes back to Nigeria’s State House: The traditional Sallah homage to Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari, by inhabitants of the Federal Capital Territory in the nation’s capital, Abuja, has been set to...
All DStv subscribers are invited to the Derek Watts homage, according to M-Net.: Advertisements TheSouthAfrican.com is dedicated to all things related to South Africa, focusing on stories that have an impact on South Africans, no matter where they...
Caitlyn Jenner and Lamar Odom Share Reunion on Sports Podcast, Paying Homage to Their ‘Keeping Up With The Kardashians’ Era with Podcast Title: Former reality television personalities Caitlyn Jenner and Lamar Odom have joined forces once again, this time for a collaborative venture in the world of podcasting....
Family of Stabbing Victim Barnaby Webber Pays Emotional Tribute at Scene of Tragedy: Read More On The Topic On TDPel Media Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn...
Nyesom Wike Pays Visit to Former Senate President Bukola Saraki Amid PDP Crisis: Wike Visits Former Senate President Saraki The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, made an unexpected visit to the residence of the...
Family pays tribute to young woman who died from accidental overdose on sleeping medication: Young Woman Dies in Her Sleep After Accidental Overdose on Sleeping Medication Chloe Caton, a 21-year-old dental receptionist, died in her sleep after accidentally overdosing...
Nicki Minaj Pays Tribute to Whitney Houston & Diana Ross, Reflects on Childhood Influences: Nicki Minaj’s Sentimental Ties: Whitney Houston’s Impact on Childhood Nicki Minaj recently appeared on Andy Cohen’s ‘Watch What Happens Live’ to share the profound influence...
Former US President Barack Obama Pays Courtesy Visit to No10, Engages in Discussions with Rishi Sunak: Former US President Barack Obama made an unanticipated appearance at Downing Street for discussions with UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak today. Obama, who was in London...