Crèche, Cathédrale de Notre-Dame, Paris
Nativity scenes, or crèches, play a significant role in Europe. In some countries, like France and Italy, the crèche is the focus of the Christmas celebration. In addition to the Holy Family, traditional village folk characters such as doctors and bakers frequently populate the stable.
Crèche, Prague
The first crèche was staged on December 24, 1223 as a teaching tool. St. Francis of Assisi built a manger in a cave in Greccio, Italy, and enlisted local peasants to play Mary, Joseph, shepherds and kings. A group of barefoot monks led villagers up the steep mountain for a glimpse and a lesson.
I’d love to hear your comments! And, if you enjoyed this post, please share it!
No comments yet.