Nativity Scenes in Fontanabuona

A Widespread Nativity Scene in the Genoese Hinterland

Nativity Scenes in Fontanabuona is the Christmas exhibition that every winter transforms the Fontanabuona Valley, in the hinterland of the Metropolitan City of Genoa, into a large open-air nativity scene. Coordinated by the Municipality of San Colombano Certenoli, the event features dozens of nativity scenes created in villages and hamlets throughout the valley, creating an itinerary to be explored between Christmas and Epiphany.

A Forty-Year Competition

The exhibition is organized by the associations Colombo Fontanabuona 2000, il Piffero di Cicagna, and Pro Loco San Colombano Certenoli, with the support of the Centro Culturale Lascito Cuneo. At the heart of the initiative is a competition among the nativity scenes, with various categories – from nativity scenes created by communities to living nativity scenes – which involves new locations each year.

Events, Music, and Awards Ceremony

Alongside the visit to the nativity scenes, the calendar offers a series of special events between December 24th and Epiphany: concerts, a living nativity scene, and activities for children. The exhibition concludes with the awards ceremony in mid-January at the sanctuary of the Madonna dei Miracoli in Cicagna, with performances by traditional choirs. Recognized as one of the Authentic Ligurian Events, it is one of the most beloved Christmas events in the Genoese hinterland.