Artful nativity scene thrills hundreds in Ainet!

Artful nativity scene thrills hundreds in Ainet!

On November 23, 2025, a unique event took place in the community center in Ainet that made the hearts of nativity scene lovers beat faster. As part of the first “Oanetna Nativity Scene Show”, 35 impressive miniatures were exhibited, which were handmade by Aineterians. Hundreds of visitors took part in this festive gathering, which was organized by the Social Committee and musically accompanied by the “Obermoar Family Music”. These nativity art works deal with the biblical history of salvation, particularly with the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem.

Christmas nativity scenes are handcrafted productions that show Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus in a manger. Animals such as oxen and donkeys as well as shepherds with sheep complete the picture. Each nativity scene is an individual, handmade piece that has a great tradition in the Alpine region and beyond. In fact, the origins of the nativity scene tradition date back to the 13th century, when the first depictions could be found in churches, monasteries and noble houses.

The development of nativity art

The nativity scene has developed over the centuries. The first nativity scene as we know it today was built by Jesuits in Prague in 1562. Its origin lies in the longing for a pictorial representation of the Christmas story, which was handed down by the evangelists Luke and Matthew. Retelling and depicting these stories became part of the church's tradition, particularly through the promotion of Jesuits, Servites and Franciscans in the context of the Counter-Reformation.

The figures in nativity scenes include not only the Holy Family, but also a variety of other figures, including angels and kings. Interestingly, the ox and donkey, which are often seen, are not mentioned in the biblical stories and come from apocryphal texts. These developments and the diversity of nativity art describe the local adaptation of nativity scenes as they exist in the Alpine region and in other cultural contexts.

Traditions and customs

The tradition of “Krippelen schaugn” is widespread in the Alpine region and allows people to admire the artistic nativity scenes of neighbors and friends. In Ainet, all nativity scenes on display can be found in the community's houses, which strengthens the sense of community and the village community. This art form not only enriches the Advent season, but is also an integral part of church and home Christmas decorations.

Nativity scenes have gained importance not only in Europe but also in a global context. Pope Francis has also promoted the tradition of depicting nativity scenes and called for nativity scenes to be installed in public and private spaces. Interest in nativity scenes and their production has increased again in recent years, supported by numerous nativity scene associations worldwide that keep the original tradition alive.

Overall, the nativity scene exhibition in Ainet shows how lively the tradition of the Christmas nativity scene is to this day and how it connects and delights people across generations. Whether in a community center or in the living room at home – marveling together at the nativity scene remains a beautiful and connecting experience during Advent.

For more information on the history of nativity scenes and their cultural significance, visit Dolomite town, Wikipedia and Nativity Museum.