Living Nativity of Montefiore Conca

A journey through time in the village of Valconca

When the sun sets over Valconca, the medieval village of Montefiore Conca, in the Province of Rimini, dims its modern lights to ignite others, more ancient. The cobbled streets of the historic center, dominated by the majestic Malatesta Fortress, fill with the fires, voices, and crafts of yesteryear: this is the magic of the Living Nativity of Montefiore Conca, one of the most evocative living Nativity scenes in Emilia-Romagna.

For a few evenings, between Christmas and New Year's, the entire village transforms into a little Bethlehem. Over 180 re-enactors—shepherds, bagpipers, blacksmiths, spinners, bakers—animate a grand open-air theatrical performance that guides visitors to the Holy Family.

Crafts, taverns, and Nativity denarii

The path winds through the village walls, where ancient crafts come back to life: the blacksmith hammering iron on the anvil, the spinner at the loom, the baker taking hot bread from the oven. Along the way, you'll find the historic taverns, set up for the occasion, where you can taste the flavors of the past—bread, cheese, wine, and traditional sweets.

To purchase food and artisanal products, a special currency is used, the Nativity denarius, which can be exchanged at designated exchange booths at the entrance. This detail makes the experience even more immersive: you leave the present behind and truly enter another time.

Tradition and the Fortress

The re-enactment, organized by the Pro Loco of Montefiore Conca along with the Municipality and the Civic Committee, is an eagerly awaited event for the entire Rimini Romagna region. The setting is the unique Malatesta Fortress, a 14th-century fortress that dominates the Conca river valley and serves as the perfect backdrop for the Nativity re-enactment.

The Baby Jesus is played, according to tradition, by the village's newborn born closest to Christmas, while local families take on the roles of the Holy Family. An event deeply rooted in the community, which attracts thousands of visitors to the heart of Emilia-Romagna every year.

Who it's for

• Families and children: free entry for under-12s, route suitable for all ages.
• Tradition enthusiasts: ancient crafts, costumes, and atmospheres of bygone eras.
• Visitors to the Riviera: a few kilometers from the sea of Rimini and Cattolica, ideal for a different evening during the holidays.