Every winter, the hillside above the village of Manarola in the Cinque Terre becomes a luminous canvas for a spectacular nativity scene installation. The display brings together tradition, art, and community spirit in a vivid celebration of the season.
It all began back in 1961 when local resident Mario Andreoli, inspired by a promise to his father, started placing illuminated figures along the terraced slopes of the village. Over time, what began as a modest display evolved into a landmark event - today, hundreds of life-sized silhouettes, thousands of lights, and kilometers of cable trace the contours of the hill, creating a breathtaking view after sunset.
The figures themselves are remarkable. Made from recycled materials like wood and metal, they are positioned across the slopes and illuminated with care and precision. The scene combines traditional nativity characters with touches of local everyday life: shepherds, animals, villagers, and even a model train that weaves through the display, all contributing to its charm.
Typically, the display is switched on around December 8 and remains illuminated through January. Visitors arriving after dusk are treated to the full effect - glowing figures high on the hillside, the village lights below, and the sea beyond - all framed by the night sky.
For travelers, it’s wise to plan the visit as the light-show begins at dusk and lasts into the evening. The hillside perch offers a dramatic viewpoint, and the pathway up - though not overly strenuous - is best undertaken with decent footwear and a little time set aside to soak in the atmosphere.
Beyond the visual display, the nativity speaks of community dedication. Each year the installation is maintained, updated, and lit by local volunteers, keeping alive the vision that Mario Andreoli set in motion more than six decades ago. His passing in 2022 marked the end of an era, but the tradition lives on through an association that preserves his legacy.
Visiting Manarola in winter offers more than just the illuminated nativity. The village, with its pastel-toned houses stacked on the cliff, the sea breeze, and peaceful off-season streets, provides a serene contrast to the summer crowds. After enjoying the lights, one might stroll through the quiet lanes, enjoy a simple local meal, or pause at a seaside vantage point for reflection.
If you’re planning a trip, aim to arrive just as the lights switch on, bring a camera (the scene is incredibly photogenic), and consider combining the visit with a train ride into the Cinque Terre region - parking can be difficult, and the train offers the scenic route.
In sum, the illuminated nativity of Manarola is more than a festive decoration - it’s a striking fusion of heritage, landscape, and light, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate a winter moment in one of Italy’s most evocative coastal villages.
