Discover the richness of the Andean Nativity in Peru

The Museu Etnològic i de Cultures del Món wants to celebrate the eight hundredth anniversary of the first nativity scene documented in history, with a commemorative showcase where you can enjoy a Peruvian nativity scene that brings together pieces from different regions such as Ayacucho, Cusco and Ancash, considered as one of the most important of the Andean plateau in the production of popular art.

The birth of this tradition and cultural, artistic and historical emblem was documented, for the first time, on Christmas Eve of 1223, eight hundred years ago, when Saint Francis of Assisi (Assisi, 1181-1226) organized in Greccio, Italy, a living nativity scene for recreate the birth of Jesus.

On the occasion of this commemoration, starting on December 20, at the Montjuïc headquarters of the MuEC, you can see, with free admission, a selection of traditional figures made by Peruvian artisans and artists such as Paulino Vera Sulca, Joaquín López Antay, Bermúdez (father), Gerónimo Olaza, Hilario Mendívil and Georgina Dueñas.

The display case, commissioned by Sirley Ríos Acuña, brings together a series of pieces that August Panyella, Eudald Serra and Albert Folch acquired during the expedition to the Andes of Peru in 1963.

The selection of pieces stands out for its quality and the use of material from the production area, such as Huamanga stone, a type of alabaster, from the province of Cangallo, Peru, which is also known by the Quechua name of rumi child (stone child) in allusion to the religious sculptures of the baby Jesus that proliferated in the viceregal era and, due to their fragility. The Huamanga carving is a very characteristic artistic manifestation of Ayacucho and is generally used to replace Western marble.

Don't miss this nativity scene where creativity, craftsmanship, spirituality and the syncretism of a culture that endures over time stand out. Delve into this unique cultural immersion in the heart of the Peruvian Andes through the Museu Etnològic i de Cultures del Món. Come and discover the Andean Nativity like you have never seen it before.