A Contemporary Twist on Naples' Traditional Nativity Scene
Pope Francis
Italy's prime minister Matteo Renzi and former prime minister Enrico Letta, who Renzi replaced.
Beppe Grillo, leader of the anti-establishment Five-Star Movement
Former Italy's prime minister Silvio Berlusconi with girlfriend Francesca Pascale
Rome vs Naples (in soccer): Rome captain Francesco Totti and Napoli player Gonzalo Higuain
Disgraced former Costa Concordia captain Francesco Schettino
Royal couple: Duke and Duchess of Cambridge William and Kate
U.S. president Barack Obama (and 2012 presidential contender Mitt Romney in the background)
Apple founder Steve Jobs
Nelson Mandela
The art of the presepe napoletano (Neapolitan Nativity Scene) is a beloved tradition that goes back centuries.
Traditionally, it is the representation of the birth of Jesus, set in 18th century Naples – to which modern-day artisans now add and reinterpret contemporary people from the world of politics, sports, culture and TV. Some of the most popular? Popes of course, Italy’s prime ministers, US president Barack Obama, the royal couple William and Kate.
Check out the gallery below for some famous personalities who have made it into the presepe napoletano.
And, when you visit Naples, head to Via San Gregorio Armeno, in the heart of the historical center, for a chance to see in person these incredible statuettes and the artisans at work.
