Sicilian Living Nativity of Nunziata di Mascali

A journey through time in the alleys of Nunziata

The Sicilian Living Nativity of Nunziata di Mascali is one of the most beloved and award-winning Nativity representations in Eastern Sicily. It takes place in the heart of Nunziata, an ancient hamlet in the municipality of Mascali, in the province of Catania, at the foot of Mount Etna. The stone alleys of the medieval village turn into a corner of ancient Palestine, where visitors walk literally inside the scene, accompanied by dozens of costumed actors.

Ancient crafts and the Nativity

The route winds through workshops and courtyards where ancient crafts of the past come to life: shepherds, carpenters, embroiderers, bakers, fishmongers, and cobblers work as they did centuries ago, recreating the daily life of a village from the past. At the heart of the representation remains the Nativity scene, with the Holy Family, shepherds, and animals. The atmosphere is completed by actors, lights, and sounds that restore the charm of a nativity that becomes a live experience.

Flavors and historic landmarks

Along the route, there is no shortage of tastings of typical local products: homemade bread, cheeses and ricotta, local wine, candied apples, pumpkin sfince, bread with dried figs, and quince jelly. The route also allows visitors to explore the charming medieval Chiesa della Nunziatella and the early Christian basilica with its 6th-century mosaics, true testaments to the village's ancient history.

An award-winning tradition

Born in 2011 from the initiative of the Oratorio San Domenico Savio and volunteers from the Santa Maria dell'Itria parish, the nativity has grown year after year to involve the entire historic center. In the 2018 and 2019 editions, it was awarded the title of best living nativity in Italy by Sicula Tradizione Etnea, confirming its status as one of the key Christmas events in the Etna area and all of Sicily.

When and where

The event is traditionally held during the Christmas season, between December and Epiphany, in the village of Nunziata di Mascali. Admission is free, and the nativity is particularly suitable for families, who can experience an immersion in Sicilian folk tradition together.