Living Nativity of Year Zero
The Nativity revives in ancient Hispellvm in the time of Augustus
About Living Nativity of Year Zero
The Living Nativity of Year Zero
In Spello, in the province of Perugia, Christmas is revived in an original form: the Living Nativity of Year Zero not only tells the story of the Nativity but intertwines it with the real history of the city in the time of Emperor Augustus, when Spello was the ancient Roman colony of Hispellvm.
A Time Machine Among the Towers of Properzio
The set-up unfolds in one of the most evocative corners of the village, between the Towers of Properzio and Porta Venere. Visitors follow an itinerary populated by costumed figures – weavers, carpenters, blacksmiths, bakers, apothecaries, healers, and merchants – who reconstruct daily life in the 1st century. Two routes are offered, with or without animation, also designed for children.
The Procession of the Magi on Epiphany
The most anticipated moment is the arrival of the Magi on January 6th: the procession starts from Piazza Kennedy and winds its way up the streets of the historic center with a majestic camel, until it reaches the Nativity scene. The event is organized by the associations Hispellvm and Ombrikos, which enhance the Roman heritage of Spello, a city loved by Augustus and rich in rare archaeological remains.
Living Nativity of Year Zero — edition 2026
Living Nativity of Year Zero 2026-2027
The Living Nativity of Year Zero is also expected in Spello for Christmas 2026-2027, organized by the associations Hispellvm and Ombrikos. As tradition dictates, the performances focus from St. Stephen's Day (December 26th) onwards and culminate with the procession of the Magi on January 6th.
The set-up between the Towers of Properzio and Porta Venere re-proposes the dual narrative – the Nativity and the life of ancient Roman Hispellvm – with costumed figures and animated routes. Precise dates and times will be announced by the organizers closer to the holidays.
Programme Living Nativity of Year Zero 2026
The precise program and times for the 2026-2027 edition will be communicated by the associations Hispellvm and Ombrikos closer to the holidays. According to tradition: living nativity performances between the Towers of Properzio and Porta Venere starting from December 26th, with animated routes populated by costumed figures (weavers, carpenters, blacksmiths, bakers, merchants); on January 6th, the procession of the Magi starts from Piazza Kennedy and goes up the historic center with the camel to the Nativity scene.
Highlights Living Nativity of Year Zero 2026
Prices Living Nativity of Year Zero 2026
Practical information — Living Nativity of Year Zero
How to get there
The Towers of Properzio and Porta Venere are located at the entrance to the historic center of Spello, reachable by train (station on the Foligno-Perugia line) and by car from the SS75.
Admission
Admission to the living nativity scene is free, generally in the afternoon-evening hours.
Tips
To witness the procession of the Magi, it is advisable to position yourself along the streets of the center on the morning of Epiphany. Warm clothing is recommended.
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Where does it take place — Living Nativity of Year Zero
Torri di Properzio e Porta Venere
Torri di Properzio, Porta Venere, 06038 Spello