The magical lighted nativity scene in Manarola will light up again this year, as every year, on December 8, 2023. This beauty can be admired daily from 5:30pm to 10pm until mid-January 2024.
The Presepe in Manarola is the biggest Christmas Nativity in the world. Do not miss the spectacular opening ceremony, with fireworks illuminating the sky, of this world famous outdoor nativity scene, in the middle of the Cinque Terre vineyards.
If you are in the area on December 8, do not miss the first official lighting up of the Nativity Scene at around 5.30pm from the piazza of Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Manarola. The same evening there is also a religious torchlight procession, a small Christmas market and amazing fireworks lighting up the sky.
Since 1976 the designer Mr. Mario Andreoli builds this unique nativity scene which covers the entire hill above Manarola. For this project 7 miles of electric cables, 15000 lights and 300 full-scale figures are needed. This unique nativity scene is made only of recycled materials powered by a photovoltaic system. The 4000 square meters of steep ground on which it is set up are not easy to reach.
If you want to admire the fireworks, you will have the best views walking up the path between Manarola and Riomaggiore. The nativity scene and the fireworks can also be seen from the central square of Manarola.
