The Santo Spirito nativity scene

Follow the star to the church of Santo Spirito to wonder at the impressive nativity scene designed by Matera-born artist Francesco Artese.

Extending across 100 square metres and hosting 110 characters, the holy story is set in the artist’s home countryside of Basilicata. Previously displayed in New York and in the Vatican City, the scene tells the story of Christ’s birth through a cross section of life of the rocks of Matera and with more than a passing reference to Florence. The bearded figure of Michelangelo appears in the Nativity carving a crucifix, the same crucifix that would be given to the Augustinian friars and positioned in the church’s sacristy.

The nativity scene will be on display until February 4, 2018.

All photos by Andrea Paoletti