100 Nativity Scenes in the Vatican, applications open for next edition

The 100 Nativity Scenes International Exhibition in the Vatican is returning for its seventh edition. The exhibition brings together works created by artists from all over the world who express their creative talent by representing the Nativity scene.

The event organized by the Dicastery for Evangelization is among the cultural initiatives being held as part of the "Jubilee is Culture" program in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee and will have a special relevance this year as it comes just before Pope Francis opens the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica at midnight on Christmas Eve.

The exhibition will be held in the evocative space beneath Bernini's Colonnade, in St. Peter's Square. This allows the numerous nativity scenes, which are all works of art in their own right, to be viewed in a setting that invites the visitor to marvel in a special way at the traditional scene of the Nativity of Jesus.

In this special year for the entire Catholic Church, the City Council of Rome has been invited to animate the exhibition.

The international exhibition 100 Nativity Scenes in the Vatican contains a great message of hope. It clearly and eloquently reminds everyone, without exception, that in the simplicity of the crib lies the fulness of life and the source of our hope.

The entry form will be posted on the web page dedicated to the exhibition, www.100presepi.va  It can be filled in and submitted by artists from June 1st until September 30, 2024. Applications can be submitted by anyone: private individuals, artisans, schools, institutions, associations, and the various Embassies to the Holy See.

As applications open, please note the following information :

● Applications can be sent by filling out the appropriate online form from the beginning of June 2024 until 30 September 2024;

● The choice of nativity scenes to be displayed will take place at the sole discretion of a Commission established by the Dicastery for Evangelization which reserves the right to evaluate the necessary suitability requirements;

● Participation in the exhibition is free of charge;

● Click here to consult the regulations