Nativity Scene of the Maritime Tradition

A Nativity Scene on the Water, Symbol of Cesenatico

The Nativity Scene of the Maritime Tradition is one of the most evocative and original nativity scenes in Italy. Set up on the historic boats of the floating section of the Maritime Museum, it occupies the oldest part of the Leonardesco Canal Port of Cesenatico, in the province of Forlì-Cesena, in the heart of Romagna. The almost life-size statues seem to walk on the water and on the sails of the old bragozzi, creating a scene that is reflected in the canal and illuminated as evening falls.

The History: From 1986 to Today

The Nativity Scene was born in 1986 thanks to the work of artists Maurizio Bertoni and Mino Savadori, joined in the project by figures such as Tinin Mantegazza. Initially, there were only seven statues; today there are over fifty, as tradition dictates that a new character is added each year. The faces, hands, and feet are carved from Swiss pine wood, the clothes are made of canvas, and the draperies are modeled in wax, in an artisanal work that makes each figure a small masterpiece.

Figures of Maritime Tradition

Alongside the Holy Family and the Magi, the nativity scene populates the port with characters from the fishing village: the piadina maker, the accordion player, fishermen at work, and the figure of Saint James, the patron saint of Cesenatico. The Nativity thus merges with the memory of the maritime community, telling a story that is both religious and identity-based.

The Lighting Ceremony and Christmas Lights

The most anticipated moment is the lighting ceremony, which officially kicks off Christmas in Cesenatico at the end of November. The spectacle accompanies the illumination of the nativity scene and all the city's Christmas lights, from the Christmas tree in Piazza Pisacane to the light installations in Piazza Ciceruacchio, on an evening of music, artistic performances, and scenic effects on the water.

An Experience for the Whole Family

Free to visit and accessible to people with disabilities, the Nativity Scene of the Maritime Tradition is a romantic and family-friendly walk along the Canal Port, best admired at sunset and after dark, when the lights reflect on the water. It remains set up throughout the holiday season, until mid-January.