17/12/2023
Pessebre Vivent: A Living Embodiment of the Christmas Story in Catalonia
Pessebre vivent or "Living Nativity Scene" is a unique tradition that originated in Catalonia, Spain, bringing the story of the birth of Jesus Christ to life. This tradition transforms the Christmas scene from simple figurines into a full-scale dramatic performance with live actors and realistic decorations.
Historical Roots
It is believed that the first Living Nativity Scene (Pessebre vivent) was created in 1223 by Saint Francis of Assisi (Sant Francesc d'Assís) in Rieti, Italy (Rieti, Itàlia). In Catalonia, the documented history of Living Nativity Scenes (Pessebre vivent) begins in the 14th century. However, a real interest in them emerged only in the mid-20th century when the idea of using live actors was conceived.
The Evolution of the Tradition in Catalonia
The first modern Pessebre vivent was organized in 1956 in Engordany, Andorra (Engordany, Andorra), initiated by Esteve Albert i Corp. It was a traditional presentation where the audience watched the action from the stage.
However, on December 24, 1962, in Corbera de Llobregat (Corbera de Llobregat), a novel approach was introduced - the audience moved among the live scenes, creating a sense of immersion in the story. The Living Nativity Scene in Corbera de Llobregat is considered the first in Catalonia and has continued to be celebrated annually without interruption. Over 200 actors depict scenes including the Annunciation of the Angel to the Virgin Mary, the shepherds, the washwomen, the birth in the cave, the Angel's announcement to the shepherds, the adoration of the shepherds and kings, the flight to Egypt, life in Nazareth, and typical Catalan scenes of rural estates.
Features of Modern Performances
Today in Catalonia, the Living Nativity Scenes (Pessebre vivents) are complex productions involving hundreds of actors, recreating various scenes from the life of Jesus and traditional Catalan landscapes. These performances usually include episodes such as the Annunciation, Christmas, the Adoration of the Shepherds and Magi, the Flight to Egypt, and even life in Nazareth.
Regional Diversity
In Catalonia, there are many Living Nativity Scenes (Pessebre vivents), each with its own characteristics. Some include dialogues, while others focus on musical accompaniment or landscape features. In total, the region has over 30 different Living Nativity Scenes (Pessebre vivents), united in the Federation of Living Nativity Scenes of Catalonia (Federació de Pessebres Vivents de Catalunya).
Provinces and Cities Hosting Living Nativity Scenes
Province of Barcelona:
- Bigues i Riells (Vallès Oriental),
- Canyelles (Garraf),
- Corró d'Avall (Vallès Oriental),
- Celrà (Girona),
- Els Prats de Rei (Anoia),
- La Pobla de Lillet (Berguedà),
- La Torreta (Vallès Oriental),
- Les Gunyoles d'Avinyonet (Alt Penedès),
- Les Torres de Fals (Bages),
- Manresa (Bages),
- Martorelles (Vallès Oriental),
- Món Sant Benet (Bages),
- Polinyà (Vallès Occidental),
- Sant Feliu de Llobregat (Baix Llobregat),
- Sant Pere de Ribes (Garraf).
Province of Girona:
- Bàscara (Alt Empordà),
- Breda (La Selva),
- Brunyola (La Selva),
- Calonge (Baix Empordà),
- Castell d'Aro (Baix Empordà),
- Fontcoberta (Pla de l'Estany),
- Joanetes (Garrotxa),
- Llers (Alt Empordà),
- Maçanet de la Selva (La Selva),
- Navata (Alt Empordà),
- Pals (Baix Empordà),
- Peralada (Alt Empordà),
- Tossa de Mar (Selva).
Province of Lleida:
- Linyola (Pla d'Urgell),
- Prullans de Cerdanya (Cerdanya),
- Peramola (Alt Urgell),
- Prullans de Cerdanya (Cerdanya),
- Sant Guim de la Plana (Segarra).
Province of Tarragona:
- La Pobla de Montornès (Tarragonès),
- L'Espluga de Francolí (Conca de Barberà),
- Masia de Castelló (Vandellòs i l'Hospitalet de l'Infant) (Baix Camp),
- Salou (Tarragonès),
- Jesús (Baix Ebre).
Visiting the Living Nativity Scenes (Pessebre vivents) in Catalonia is not only an opportunity to get acquainted with a unique cultural tradition but also a wonderful way to spend time with the family. Each scene is meticulously prepared by local residents who put their soul and effort into creating these magical scenes, making each performance unique and unforgettable.
For children and adults, being among the live biblical scenes will be not only educational but also an engaging experience. They will be able to watch actors playing historical roles and even interact with them, adding a special festive atmosphere.
Moreover, after the performance, visitors are often treated to pleasant surprises such as hot chocolate or traditional broth, making the experience even warmer and more joyful. It is a wonderful way to end the day, warming up and discussing the seen with loved ones.
Thus, the Living Nativity Scenes (Pessebre vivents) represent not only a cultural event but also an opportunity for family recreation, full of wonder, warmth, and joy. It is definitely worth visiting to experience the true magic of Christmas.
Planning Your Visit to the Living Nativity Scene (Pessebre vivents)
If you are interested in visiting one of these magnificent Living Nativity Scenes in Catalonia, you have a wonderful opportunity to plan your visit in advance. The official website, pessebresvivents.cat, features a convenient calendar of performances, where you can find out about the dates and locations of various events. Additionally, the website offers ticket purchasing, greatly simplifying the process of organizing your visit.
This website is an invaluable resource for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of Catalonia's Christmas traditions and enjoy their magic in the company of loved ones. Don't miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable cultural experience!
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