Nativity Scenes Along the Ancient Streets

A widespread nativity scene through the ancient streets of Civitella Roveto

Nativity Scenes Along the Ancient Streets is the Christmas exhibition that transforms the historic center of Civitella Roveto—a town in the Marsica region of the province of L'Aquila, in the heart of Abruzzo—into a charming, open-air nativity scene every December. The village, with its ancient streets, stone alleys, and historic doorways, becomes a grand Christmas stage that blends tradition, devotion, and a deep sense of belonging.

Dozens of handcrafted nativity scenes along the route

Along the path, which begins at the War Memorial and winds through the streets of the historic center, visitors will find dozens of handmade nativity scenes crafted from various materials, often using recycled items. Each display is born from the spontaneous initiative of associations, volunteers, and private citizens, who are invited to set up small nativity scenes and lighting points outside their homes and in the most characteristic spots of the village. The result is an itinerary where every corner tells the story of the deeply rooted Abruzzese nativity tradition.

The #adottaunportone initiative

Alongside the nativity exhibition, the event promotes the #adottaunportone (Adopt a Doorway) initiative: numerous historic doorways in the village are decorated and adorned for the holidays, helping to make the Christmas atmosphere even warmer and more engaging. It is a way to showcase the architecture of the historic center and encourage the participation of the entire community.

Concerts, a living nativity, and the Christmas program

The exhibition is part of a broader program of Christmas events in Civitella Roveto and the hamlet of Meta. The opening of the nativity scenes is accompanied by the Christmas Concert of the Civitella Roveto Band, while in the following days, the historic center hosts the living nativity organized by the San Giovanni Battista Festival Committee, featuring actors and Nativity scenes set among the village streets. Book presentations, meetings, and the arrival of the Befana complete a calendar that accompanies the community throughout the holiday season.

A grassroots project

Founded a few years ago through the initiative of associations, volunteers, and private citizens, and supported by the Municipality of Civitella Roveto, the exhibition has grown with each edition to become one of the most anticipated and cherished Christmas appointments in the Valle Roveto, Abruzzo, capable of attracting visitors from neighboring towns and strengthening the community's bond with its roots.