Ossana – The Village of 1000 Nativity Scenes

An open-air nativity museum

Ossana – The Village of 1000 Nativity Scenes is one of the most beloved Christmas events in Trentino-Alto Adige. Every winter, the small town of Ossana, in the heart of Val di Sole, transforms into a true open-air museum: over 1,600 handcrafted nativity scenes are displayed throughout alleys, entrance halls, fountains, cellars, and house windows, created by local artists, craftsmen, and families using a diverse array of styles and materials.

The illuminated path to the Castle

Visitors follow a marked route that starts in the historic center and climbs along the village lanes up to the walls of San Michele Castle, which reopens during the winter season specifically for this event. Inside the fortress, a special nativity scene is set up, commemorating a true story: Christmas night in the trenches during World War I. The festive lighting, artisanal lamps, and the red thread that guides the path create a particularly magical atmosphere after sunset.

The Christmas Village and the market

At the foot of the castle and in the village squares, you will find the Christmas Village, designed especially for children: Santa's House, the elves' panoramic sleigh, the Elf's House, and, during the Epiphany, the Befana's House. The charming wooden stalls of the Christmas market offer artisanal crafts, mountain gastronomic specialties, gift ideas, and tastings of mulled wine and traditional sweets.

Guided tours and experiences

• Free guided tours of the nativity scenes on market days, meeting at the information point
• Winter opening of San Michele Castle with the Great War nativity scene
• Nativity hunt with a map and riddle-based route for families and children
• Light shows, music, and entertainment along the route

A community event

The event is organized by the Pro Loco Il Borgo Antico di Ossana in collaboration with the Municipality of Ossana and the Val di Sole Tourist Board. It is the result of the voluntary work of the entire village, which renews the displays every year: this collective effort, combined with the alpine setting of Val di Sole, has made Ossana one of the most photographed Christmas destinations in Trentino.