Presepe Vivente di Petrignano d'Assisi
The oldest living nativity scene in Umbria, in the medieval castle of Petrignano
About Presepe Vivente di Petrignano
The historic living nativity scene of Petrignano
Born in 1978, the Presepe Vivente di Petrignano d'Assisi is the oldest in Umbria and one of the most beloved in Central Italy. Every year, the village of Petrignano, a hamlet of the Municipality of Assisi (province of Perugia), goes back two thousand years: the alleys of the medieval castle and the banks of the Chiascio river become Palestine at the time of Christ's birth.
An entire village reenacting the Nativity
Over 200 volunteer participants, live animals, and meticulously detailed settings recreate the streets of Bethlehem over approximately 3,200 square meters. You can encounter artisans at work, scenes of daily life, the census, and finally reach the grotto of the Nativity. The setup requires thousands of hours of work and welcomes about 10,000 visitors each season.
Between Assisi and Subasio
Petrignano is located about 8 km from Assisi and 15 km from Perugia, in the heart of Franciscan territory. The event is part of the rich Christmas program of the Assisi area, which also includes the living nativity scenes of Armenzano and other hamlets. An experience that combines popular faith, tradition, and local memory.
Presepe Vivente di Petrignano — edition 2026
2026-2027 Edition
The Presepe Vivente di Petrignano d'Assisi renews its appointment for Christmas 2026. The established format is confirmed: over 200 participants, ancient crafts, and the reenactment of the Nativity along the village alleys and the banks of the Chiascio.
Performances are traditionally held on public holidays between December 25th and January 6th, with evening hours around 5:15 PM - 7:30 PM.
Programme Presepe Vivente di Petrignano 2026
The detailed schedule of performances for 2026-2027 will be published by the Presepe Vivente Committee on the official website presepepetrignano.it closer to the Christmas holidays.
Based on recent editions, performances take place on public holidays during the Christmas period (Christmas Day, Boxing Day, early January, and Epiphany) with the usual schedule:
- Performance times: from 5:15 PM to 7:30 PM (5:00 PM on Epiphany Day)
- Location: medieval castle of Petrignano and banks of the Chiascio river
- Free shuttle service from the historic center of Assisi
For confirmed dates, consult presepepetrignano.it.
Highlights Presepe Vivente di Petrignano 2026
Practical information — Presepe Vivente di Petrignano
How to get there
Petrignano d'Assisi is about 8 km from Assisi and 4 km from San Francesco International Airport. By train: Assisi station (8 km). By car: Petrignano d'Assisi-Assisi exit.
Parking and shuttle
Four authorized parking areas are available (P1-P4); free shuttle service from the center of Assisi on performance days.
Admission
For updated times and access procedures, consult the official website presepepetrignano.it.
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Where does it take place — Presepe Vivente di Petrignano
Borgo medievale di Petrignano d'Assisi
Castello di Petrignano, 06086 Assisi