The medieval village transforms into an open-air nativity scene, with costumed figures, animals, and ancient crafts
The Living Nativity of Pievefavera is one of the most evocative nativity representations in the Marche region, set in the small and charming medieval village of Pievefavera, a hamlet of the Municipality of Caldarola, in the province of Macerata. The village's layout, with its narrow alleys, ancient architecture, and panoramic position, makes it a natural stage: the village itself seems designed to host the Nativity scene.
The event holds particular significance for the community: after a ten-year break following the 2016 earthquake that severely affected the Marche hinterland, the Living Nativity has returned thanks to the initiative of the young people of Pievefavera, supported by the Pro Loco of Caldarola, the Pro Loco of Cessapalombo, the Municipality of Caldarola, and the work of numerous volunteers. It is a sign of rebirth and deep connection to an event that is part of the identity of these places.
Visitors walk through an itinerary that winds through the village streets, accompanied by atmospheric lights, music, and scents. Along the way, numerous living tableaux come to life:
Over a hundred costumed figures bring the scenes to life, accompanied by farm animals that help recreate the atmosphere of ancient times.
The opening night of the revival recorded an extraordinary success, with over 1,600 visitors arriving in Pievefavera from all over the region. The event is entirely created by the local community and enhanced by the tasting of typical local products, in a festive atmosphere that combines religious tradition, historical memory, and conviviality in the heart of the Marche.
The 2026 edition of the Living Nativity of Pievefavera featured a re-enactment on Sunday, January 4, 2026, starting in the afternoon around 3:00 PM, capping off the great reception received on the opening night of late December 2025, which had attracted over 1,600 visitors.
In the medieval village of Pievefavera, a hamlet of Caldarola, visitors walked through the traditional living tableaux: the Annunciation, the ancient market with crafts, the Roman soldiers' camp with Herod's temple, the inn, and the Nativity. Over a hundred costumed figures and animals recreated the atmosphere of ancient times, amidst lights, music, and tastings of local products.
Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 3:00 PM: Living Nativity route through the alleys of the village of Pievefavera. Living tableaux: Annunciation, ancient market and traditional crafts, Roman soldiers' camp and Herod's temple, inn, Nativity. Animation with costumed figures, animals, music, and local products.
The Living Nativity is held in the medieval village of Pievefavera, a hamlet of Caldarola (MC), in the Marche region. It can be reached by car from the SS77 Val di Chienti, exiting towards Caldarola and continuing to the hamlet of Pievefavera.
The representations take place in the afternoon, starting around 3:00 PM. Admission is free. Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for the village alleys and the winter season are recommended.
Municipality of Caldarola, tel. +39 0733 905529, email [email protected].
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Borgo medievale di Pievefavera