VRSA nativity scene features a record 5,900 pieces
The iconic giant nativity scene of Vila Real de Santo António is back for its 22nd edition, showcasing a record-breaking 5,900 pieces.
Housed in the António Aleixo cultural centre, the nativity scene opened to the public on December 3 and will remain on display until January 6, 2025.
Spanning an impressive 240 square metres, the nativity scene is a labour of love, crafted from over 20 tons of sand, 4 tons of stone powder, and 3,000 kilograms of cork, along with a wide array of props. The result is a meticulous recreation of nativity scenes and regional Algarve traditions.
Preparation for this year’s exhibit involved more than 2,500 hours of work over 40 days, with planning starting months in advance. Notable features include 100 animated and motorised figures, lakes, and LED lighting that brings the display to life.
The nativity scene also features beloved regional elements, including representations of the town’s Praça Marquês de Pombal square, the Algarve’s iconic salinas, traditional water wells, and the fishermen’s huts of Monte Gordo. In addition to biblical scenes, the exhibit highlights local traditions and customs.
A standout addition for 2024 is a quarry complete with a bust of António Aleixo, the poet native to Vila Real de Santo António.
The festive attraction, which pulls thousands of visitors from Portugal and even neighbouring Spain every year to VRSA, is also eco-minded, with many materials, including cork and moss, being natural or recycled, while its lakes use recycled water.
Brought to life by Augusto Rosa, Teresa Marques, Joaquim Soares, and Luís Perrolas, the nativity scene can be visited daily from 10am to 1pm and 2.30pm to 7pm, except on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve (December 24 and 31), when it closes at 6pm, and on New Year’s Day, when it opens at 2.30pm.
Visitors are charged a symbolic fee of €1 (or €0,50 for children aged three to 10).
