The Vatican inaugurated the 8th edition of the “100 Nativity Scenes in the Vatican” exhibition, featuring nativity scenes from around the world as part of the cultural event series Jubilee is Culture.
The inauguration ceremony took place under the left colonnade of St. Peter’s Square on December 8.
As part of the cultural event, the exhibition featured creative interpretations of nativity scenes made by artists from various parts of the world.
Archbishop Rino Fisichella, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization and head of the Jubilee preparations, opened the exhibition alongside other Dicastery members. The event also included a traditional folkloric performance organized by the Embassy of Mexico to the Holy See.
Around 23 countries from around the world were represented through 132 nativity scenes, including contributions from Croatia, Romania, Peru, Eritrea, and Taiwan. A wide range of materials—such as Japanese paper, silk, resin, wool, coconut and banana fibers, and glass—had been used in their creation.
One nativity scene was displayed on the front of an ATAC bus, while another was crafted from a tannery drum. The exhibition also featured several mechanical nativity scenes and a large traditional Mexican display.
An official supporter of Jubilee 2025, Urban Vision Group contributed to the large displays that framed the entrance. Gianluca de Marchi, CEO of the group, shared that the exhibition serves as a reminder of the Christian faith and the origins of Christmas.
He added that, through technological innovation, they offer their expertise to serve the community of believers, participating in a spiritual and cultural journey that brings together stories, traditions, and peoples from all over the world—continuing their broader commitment to Jubilee 2025.
The 100 Nativity Scenes in the Vatican exhibition will remain open until 6 January 2026.