Self-propelled nativity scene in Cinisi

In Cinisi, during the Christmas holidays, the Self-Propelled Nativity Scene by Giacomo and Lorenzo Randazzo is set up every year at the Palazzo dei Benedettini.
It is a miniature nativity scene of Sicilian arts, crafts and traditions, in scale 1 : 10, full of miniaturized details and mechanized self-propelled characters. Thanks to meticulous research and an in-depth study of the history of the Sicilian tradition, the nativity scene reproduces in the smallest details clothes, instruments and places typical of post-war Sicily and for this reason it is registered in the Register of Intangible Heritage established by the Region of Sicily.
The nativity scene is made with real materials, such as tuff, stone, ceramic, wood and iron. The characters, through mechanisms with attention to the smallest details, reproduce the typical movements of the different professions that are represented: the blacksmith, the carpenter, the shoemaker, the embroiderer and the spinner, the senia, the mill, the potter, the masons, the piaggitori of grapes, the grain grinder, the Sicilian carts, the ricottaio, the oven, the lathe, the laundress, and the spectacle of Sicilian puppets.

Dates and Scheduling

Opening hours

Until January 6th:
Weekdays: 5.00pm - 8.00pm
Holidays: 4.30pm - 8.30pm

From 6 to 19 January:
Saturday and Sunday: 4.30pm - 8.00pm

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