Easter Nativity Scene Exhibition

An Easter nativity scene, an idea that became tradition

In the seaside village of Balestrate, in the province of Palermo, an event that defies convention comes to life every spring: the Easter Nativity Scene Exhibition. In Sicily, the Easter nativity scene is an ancient ritual at risk of disappearing, and this project—conceived and created by retired teacher Maddalena Cottone—was born specifically to preserve it. What began as a local initiative has grown year after year, attracting visitors from across the region from the very first hours of opening.

Ten scenes suspended in the void

The heart of the exhibition consists of ten scenes depicting the Passion of Christ, handcrafted by local artisans. The installations appear suspended in space thanks to clever lighting effects and draw on the Neapolitan tradition of impagliati, the straw and wire figures typical of the Neapolitan nativity scene. It is a display of great religious and artistic value, where sacred narrative intertwines with civic memory.

Sicilian heroes alongside Gospel figures

The most original feature of the exhibition is the presence, alongside evangelical figures, of historical and contemporary characters chosen as symbols of values. Among the scenes, one can find judges Falcone and Borsellino representing justice, Father Pino Puglisi for honesty, Franca Viola for courage, Domenico Intravaia for altruism, and even the YouTubers Me contro Te (Luigi Calagna and Sofia Scalia), beloved by children. It is a way to speak about universal values to all generations.

A community at work

The exhibition is the result of a network of volunteering and collaboration: the Terre delle Balestrate Community Cooperative, the parish led by Father Francesco Giannola, the Municipality of Balestrate, and numerous local artisans. Students from the Danilo Dolci Institute in Partinico also participate in the creation as part of school-work programs. Admission is free, confirming a project designed as a gift to the community and the territory.