December/January
The Living Nativity Scene of Tricase is the re-enactment of Bethlehem in Puglia, restored in the Roman era around 2,000 years ago. It’s the longest existing living nativity in the south of Italy as it first appeared in 1976.
The Nativity scene covers about four hectares and its route extends to about two kilometres, where you can experience a fairytale atmosphere and true to life tradesmen and traditions in Salento during the Roman Empire.
The preparation of these scenes has required thorough research, and with the recovery of ancient agricultural tools and craftsmen’s techniques, have allowed for a meticulous historical reconstruction of the environment.
Projected in a far away world, visitors can experience ancient trades such as the cobbler, farmers at real life grain and oil mills, women who knead the dough to make the typical “Orecchiette”, small ear shaped pasta, or textiles at the ancient rows, from the blacksmith to the cobbler, it’s a true replica of times gone by. Many more ancient crafts rediscovered and represented by over 250 locals dressed in traditional costumes. The living Nativity scene of Tricase is a religious and cultural event which attracts more and more visitors each year of up to almost 150,000 gathering from surrounding towns and regions and also abroad.
Picture from Michelle Scott by Pixabay
If you would like to emerge yourself in the past and relive a magic atmosphere which only Christmas can offer, then the living Nativity scene of Tricase can give you this memorable and unrepeatable experience.
PUGLIA EXPLORATION offers this unique experience to relive these events and localities, whether it be for just a weekend or as a complete package holiday of your dreams to discover this marvellous unspoilt land.