The art of presepe in Portico di Romagna

Italy has a very special tradition happening every year at Christmas time. The history says that the first presepe of the history was created by Saint Francis, one of the patron saint of Italy. He wanted to create the nativity recall in a place which could be near the poor people he was living with. It was 1223 and since then the tradition of presepe took place in Italy in very many different ways.

The “diffused” presepe in Portico di Romagna

Presepe began also a very high form of artistic expression, just think about the gorgeous presepe of Neaples tradition with its hand made statues in clay and its amazing tissues dresses and luxury details.

Portico di Romagna has chosen its own original way to celebrate the event of Christ's nativity, transforming the whole borough in a powerful and charming representation, following the concept of “diffusion” that has made this tiny town one of the first good experiment of Albergo Diffuso.

Fifteen year ago some of the inhabitants of the borough decided to create a living experience and started to compose their own presepe near their house and throughout the borough. Since then this tradition became a “must do” for the many people that come to Portico every year during Christmas time.

Creativity, art and culture to represent nativity

The exhibition of nativity scenes outdoors, scattered in the most charming spots, in the facades of the houses, in the subscales, the windows, the benches or in hollow logs, made from the most varied materials. And for all the visitors, public holidays, pastries and hot drinks. And the tradition of setting up nativity scenes outdoors, especially near their homes, is renewed for a long time among the inhabitants of Portico di Romagna. The evocative atmosphere that is created reaches its peak especially in the evening hours, with the lighting of the "enlightenment".

Christmas markets in the borough

To complete the enchantment of the borough, you will also find a very delightful and typical Christmas market, which will take place from tuesday the 8th of December and then again on Sunday (13th, 20th and 27th December), finally ending on January 2016, the 6th, celebrating the Befana. A nice chance to meet the artisans living and working in Portico and also the many other who will present their ideas and creativity.

Info and tips

If you want to come and visit the borough, we advise you to come in the late afternoon and enjoy the last lights of the sunset and the lighting of the presepe and the charming atmosphere