One of the most popular Spanish traditions at Christmas is to decorate houses, churches and public and private organisations with a nativity scene. During the festive season, Madrid is full of different types of nativity scenes that can be visited free of charge by tourists and locals alike.
A not to be missed visit is Madrid City Council’s Nativity Scene by José Luis Mayo Lebrija at the CentroCentro Cibeles Palace. It consists of several hand-crafted pieces that depict the best-known scenes of the Mystery, along with others that are less represented. You should also visit the Neapolitan nativity scene in the Plaza Mayor.
The Palacio Real presents its Prince’s Nativity Scene, a Neapolitan Nativity Scene that dates back to the one made by Charles III for his son Charles IV. It is made up of more than 200 Neapolitan, Genoese and Spanish figures dating from the 18th to the 21st century.
Every Christmas, the History Museum in Madrid displays an exquisite 18th century Neapolitan Nativity Scene, which is one of the most valuable works housed in the Museum. It is made up of 50 pieces articulated in an oriental scenography that reflects the courtly spirit of Baroque culture.
Don't miss the nativity scene at the San Isidro Museum with a traditional nativity scene featuring figures that highlight the importance of the nativity tradition in the 19th century.
On the other hand, the courtyard of the headquarters of the Community of Madrid, in Puerta del Sol displays the traditional nativity scene, as well as the nativity scenes in the monasteries of the Royal Foundation (La Encarnación, Las Descalzas Reales and the Royal Convent of Santa Isabel).
The nativity scenes at Casa de México, el Museum of America, National Museum of Decorative Arts or the Municipal Press (Imprenta Municipal) are also interesting.
Different El Corte Inglés stores usually display interesting nativity scenes: Plaza de Callao. El Corte Inglés Callao, Plaza de Felipe II. El Corte Inglés Goya; Plaza de Serrano. El Corte Inglés Serrano, 47 or Outdoor Car-park. El Corte Inglés Paseo de la Castellana.
Many of these nativity scenes form part of the traditional route designed by the City Council with more than 25 nativity scenes on display around the city, including the Almudena Cathedral, as well as cultural centres and other organisations.
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