The Christmas season in Pistoia and its surroundings is particularly enchanting, thanks to the numerous artistic nativity scenes that blend seamlessly with the magical atmosphere of the city. In addition to the tradition of Christmas markets and holiday lights, Pistoia becomes an ideal destination for those who love to discover Nativity displays, often crafted with great skill by local artisans. This itinerary will guide you through the best nativity scenes and holiday attractions in Pistoia and its surrounding areas.
Province of Arezzo
Castiglion Fiorentino – Living Nativity Scene of Castiglion Fiorentino
Dates: December 22 and 26, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: The nativity scene unfolds across the squares, streets, and alleys of the historic center, including Porta Fiorentina, Piazza S. Francesco, Piazza del Municipio, the Cassero area, the Collegiata area, and Porta Romana.
Description: An immersive experience that recreates ancient traditions of daily life during the Nativity period, with costumed figures bringing the streets of the village to life.
Province of Lucca
Lucca – “Presepe Vestito di Santa Maria Nera”
Dates: December 8, 2024 – January 8, 2025
Location: Santa Maria Corteorlandini Church, Lucca.
Description: A unique nativity scene featuring figurines dressed in traditional Lucca clothing, creating a distinctive and captivating atmosphere.
Capannori (Loc. Ruota) – Living Nativity Scene of Ruota
Date: December 26, 2024
Location: Loc. Ruota, Capannori.
Description: The Living Nativity Scene of Ruota involves the entire village, with actors recreating scenes from the Nativity in a charming and evocative setting.
Province of Prato
Iolo – Living Nativity Scene of Iolo
Dates: December 26, 2024, and January 6, 2025
Time: Starting at 5:00 PM
Location: The streets of Iolo, Prato.
Description: The Living Nativity Scene of Iolo is a community event that brings the Christmas spirit to the streets of the town, featuring everyday life scenes and the Nativity.
Province of Siena
Casole d’Elsa – Praesepium
Dates: December 26, 29, 2024, and January 1, 4, 5, and 6, 2025
Time: From 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Location: Piazza della Libertà, Casole d’Elsa.
Description: The Praesepium in Casole d’Elsa is an artistic nativity scene that evokes past traditions, with a keen attention to detail. The statues are arranged in a context that highlights the medieval village and its history.
These are some of the most captivating nativity scenes to visit in the provinces of Arezzo, Lucca, Prato, and Siena, offering a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Tuscan Christmas traditions and experience the magic of Christmas in charming historic settings.