The crèche season begins in Bamberg
Whether you believe it or not that Jesus, the Son of God, was born in a stable in Bethlehem more than 2000 years ago - setting up a nativity scene is a tradition in many families. Numerous nativity scenes can be admired in and around Bamberg during the Advent and Christmas season. The nativity scene season in the Upper Franconian town officially opens this Friday (December 1).
Nativity scenes have already been set up in museums, churches and public squares in the days beforehand - at more than 35 locations in the city and district, according to the city. On display are not only classic nativity scenes with Mary, Joseph, Jesus, shepherds and lots of sheep, but also unusual depictions of the birth of Christ. This winter, for example, the Hirschaid Nativity Museum near Bamberg is devoting special attention to nativity scenes from Africa: the continent has a rich tradition of nativity scenes, it said. On display are nativity scenes from twelve African countries made from a wide variety of materials.
In Bamberg Cathedral, new biblical scenes are set up in the nativity scene every week - starting with the announcement that Mary will have a child and ending with the visit of twelve-year-old Jesus to the temple.
Pottery nativity figures from Peru can be seen in the Church of the Redeemer; a large nativity scene with almost life-size figures is set up on Maxplatz.
At the opening of the nativity scene season in St. Martin's Church, a stage nativity scene with around 200 figures can be seen. The pictures are changed every one or two weeks so that many scenes from the Christmas story can be shown.
In Upper France, the customs of setting up nativity scenes extend beyond Bamberg, with churches and public squares hosting these displays as well. During Christmas, the Church in Upper France becomes a vibrant site, showcasing not only traditional nativity scenes but also intriguing representations from different cultures, such as Africa.
Source: www.dpa.com
