Living Nativity at the Hermitage of San Francesco

A Bethlehem in the Piceno Woods

Every year, in the first days of January, the Hermitage of San Francesco in Rotella, in the province of Ascoli Piceno, becomes the heart of one of the most cherished Christmas re-enactments in the Marche region: the Living Nativity. A walking path winds through the entire convent area, transporting visitors to the Bethlehem of two thousand years ago, into an enchanted world populated by workshops, animals, and characters illuminated solely by the light of torches.

One Hundred and Fifty Re-enactors and Ancient Crafts

The nativity scene comes to life thanks to the participation of about 150 re-enactors, who offer a glimpse into the life of the people of that era. Along the route, you'll encounter workshops of artisans and crafts of the past, scenes of daily life, and interactive theatre moments, animated by companies like In Flames and Teatro del Ramino. The serene atmosphere of the hermitage, immersed in nature, makes the experience particularly evocative, especially at dusk.

The Hermitage of San Francesco

The location is not chosen by chance: the Hermitage has its roots in an ancient hermitage dating back to around the year 1000 and preserves the memory of the passage of Saint Francis of Assisi, who according to tradition stayed there in 1215. Today it is inhabited by the Community of Friars Disciples of Mary of Nazareth, whose experience is founded on prayer, fraternal life, hospitality, and manual labor. The Living Nativity was born precisely from the desire of this community to share the most authentic meaning of Christmas with the local area.

A Community Event of the Territory

The event is organized by the Community of friars in collaboration with the neighboring parishes—including Castel di Croce, Castel San Pietro, Poggio Canoso, and Montemoro—and with the patronage of the Municipality of Rotella. It is an event that unites the entire community of the surrounding hamlets, in the heart of southern Marche, at the foot of Monte dell'Ascensione.

Tastings Along the Route

Along the way, visitors can stop at the workshops to taste typical local products: cheeses, skewers, fritters, and hot drinks. Special coins, purchased at the entrance, are used for tastings, following the nativity tradition, while access to the re-enactment remains free.