The eastern Algarve municipality of Castro Marim will unveil its famous salt nativity scene next month, marking the official start of its festive season.
The stunning display, brought to life using the town’s ‘white gold’ as well as decorations crafted by local artisans, will be officially presented at 4.30pm on Monday, December 1 at Casa do Sal.
Set among tons of salt and hundreds of figures, the scene has fast become a favourite among residents and visitors of the Algarve during the holiday season.
This year’s big highlight is a cane-woven nativity set crafted by Martinho Fernandes and Paula Gaspar.
Each edition brings new layouts, new details and new handmade pieces that recreate religious scenes and long-lost local trades. Works created using empreita – a centuries-old basketry technique from the Algarve in which artisans weave narrow palm-leaf braids into sturdy, flexible pieces – bear the signatures of Albina Sequeira, Maria Fernanda Fernandes, Sebastião Sequeira and Diamantino Romeira.
The event, officially titled ‘Presépio do Sal e das Artes’ (Salt and Arts Nativity Scene), has taken on a key role in the promotion of Castro Marim’s deep connection to salt – its cultural, social and economic backbone. It also shines a spotlight on local artisans and heritage, including its craftsmanship and art.
The exhibition runs at Casa do Sal until January 6, 2026, and is open daily from 9am–1pm and 2.30pm–5.30pm.
The event is organised by the Castro Marim parish council in partnership with the municipal council.
