The Vatican is preparing to unveil the latest edition of its international Nativity exhibition, an annual cultural initiative that gathers artistic interpretations of the birth of Christ from communities around the world. This year’s opening, set for eight December under the left colonnade of Saint Peter’s Square, forms part of the broader Jubilee is Culture programme and continues a tradition that blends devotional expression with global artistic diversity. The inaugural ceremony will be led by Archbishop Rino Fisichella alongside representatives from the Dicastery for Evangelization, with a folkloric performance organized by the Embassy of Mexico adding a cultural dimension to the event. The exhibition aims not only to celebrate Christmas but also to underscore the centrality of the Nativity narrative in Christian identity, offering visitors a space where devotional art intersects with contemporary cultural reflection. Its return reflects the Vatican’s ongoing integration of public cultural events into Jubilee preparations, drawing pilgrims and visitors into a blend of faith and artistic heritage.
This year’s edition features one hundred and thirty two Nativity scenes crafted by artists from twenty three countries, demonstrating the breadth of materials and techniques used to reinterpret a centuries old tradition. Displays incorporate Japanese paper, silk, wool, resin, banana fibre, coconut fibre and glass, illustrating how artisans adapt the Nativity to local cultural contexts while maintaining its theological significance. Several pieces interpret the scene through modern forms, including one installed at the front of a city bus and another constructed from a tannery drum. Mechanical sets and a large Mexican Nativity model add to the variety, showcasing the evolution of devotional craftsmanship in dialogue with regional identity. The scale and diversity of the exhibition underline its role as both a cultural showcase and a reflection of how Christian communities express shared beliefs through distinct creative languages, reinforcing the unifying theme of the birth of Christ across continents.
The installation of large structural displays at the exhibition entrance has been made possible through support from Urban Vision Group, a contributor to Jubilee twenty twenty five. Their involvement highlights the increasing use of technological and design partnerships in making Vatican cultural events accessible to wider audiences. The group’s chief executive described the exhibition as an opportunity to encourage reflection on the origins of Christmas while contributing to a broader cultural and spiritual initiative that brings together different peoples and traditions. The exhibition will remain open until eight January twenty twenty six, offering an extended period for pilgrims, tourists and residents to engage with the variety of works. As a cultural initiative, the event reinforces the Vatican’s ongoing commitment to using artistic expression as a bridge between faith, history and global cultural exchange during a significant Jubilee year.
