The tradition of erecting Nativity scenes in churches is a very old one. Ravenna boasts many creative scenes and installations evoking popular culture, all of which lead you to reflect on the mystery of Christ’s birth. Each nativity scene induces emotions in its own way. Some are true works of art, such as the permanent Presepe artistico stile 700 Napoletano (18th century Neapolitan style nativity scene) in the Church of San Giovanni Battista, or the Presepe artistico stile 700 Siciliano (18th century Sicilian style nativity scene) in the Church of Sant’Agata.
Created by hand with extremely close attention to detail, nativity scenes offer a fascinating glimpse into the customs of past eras. As well as the city’s religious buildings, you can admire a variety of scenes in shop windows in the city centre and in several locations along the seafront. 
Highlights include the Presepe di Sabbia (Sand Nativity) at Marina di Ravenna, the living Nativity scene entitled Il Presepe una tradizione, prevalentemente italiana (The Nativity Scene is a Largely Italian Tradition)at Punta Marina Terme (Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd December from 3 pm) and Il Presepio Vivente (The Living Nativity Scene) at the Basilica of S. Apollinare in Classe (December 24th at 7.30pm and 6th January 6th at 3.30pm).

For more information visit www.turismo.ravenna.it