Notre-Dame: Italy takes to the cathedral vaults with a Neapolitan crib for Christmas

Christmas is fast approaching, and Notre-Dame de Paris, fresh from its rejuvenation, is pulling out all the stops: an exceptional Neapolitan nativity scene will occupy the cathedral until February 2025! This 18th-century masterpiece features 150 santons assembled over a lifetime by collector Alberto Ravaglioli, who passed away last year.

The scenography and installation were entrusted to the prestigious workshops of the Sinno brothers and Biagio Roscigno, in the purest respect for 18th-century Neapolitan traditions. Three scenes from the Gospel are featured: the Nativity, in a hut set against the ruins of a temple - an allegory of the victory of Christianity over paganism; the Annunciation to the shepherds, with its luminous angels; and the Tavern, where the devilish innkeeper refuses Mary and Joseph hospitality. Around these biblical tableaux, Naples comes to life with playlets from its popular daily life of the time. All of which reveal a craftsmanship that is still very much alive, though increasingly rare.

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More than a work of art, this crib has a very special resonance. For the representatives of Grandi Eventi Culturali, Agatino Alajmo and Marco Ravaglioli, it represents a token of Italian friendship offered to France, just as Notre-Dame is reinventing itself.

Between age-old traditions and Christmas enchantment, we invite you to join us under the legendary vaults of Notre-Dame!

All you need to know about Notre-Dame de Paris: opening times, reservations, prices, new features
With its thirteen million visitors a year, Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral is one of the capital's must-sees. A place of worship as well as a monument, it has witnessed the history of Paris since its construction. Since December 8, 2024, the monument is once again accessible. With reservations, year-round concerts and suggested tours, discover all the information you need to prepare your visit to this emblem of Paris, ready to welcome the world. [Read more]