Journey through Time and Tradition: The Magical Nativity Scene of Bariola - Vicenza - Italy

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Hello dear friends of this wonderful community,

Today I am excited to share with you some photos I took a few days ago, which, for some strange reason, I have always forgotten to share. These pictures capture a truly unique and highly visited nativity scene in the province of Vicenza, precisely in the picturesque hamlet of Bariola, belonging to the municipality of Valli del Pasubio. The images I'm about to show you were taken in this small corner of the world, where every year an extraordinary nativity scene known as the "Nativity Scene of Bariola" is set up, and I highly recommend visiting it next year.

The story behind this fascinating project is quite unique. The characters scattered through the streets and stables of Bariola represent the locals, not chosen randomly, but carefully selected from those who once populated these houses or still inhabit them today. A group of about 25 volunteers is dedicated to organizing this event, enriching the nativity scene each year with new figurines, with passion and dedication. Currently, the number of characters has reached the astonishing figure of sixty-five, and, as you can see from the photos, their faces are made of fiberglass, created specifically through molds to pay tribute to the inhabitants of this charming place while they are engaged in the jobs they once did here.

The uniqueness of involving the local population directly has ensured that the Bariola Nativity Scene has attracted more and more visitors over time, not only from the region but even from all over Italy. Personally, I decided to visit it on a quiet weekday, but I've been told that during weekends, buses even arrive from distant places in Italy and even from abroad.

I find this initiative incredibly creative because it not only offers the opportunity to immerse oneself in the Christmas atmosphere of the Contrada but also allows us to remember and relive the traditions and stories that have characterized these places over time. It's a fascinating way to preserve the memory of the people and communities that have contributed to shaping the identity of Bariola, especially making these things known to the younger generation.

I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I did, and I sincerely thank you for taking the time to read this post. See you in the next update, dear friends!