In depth
What it is
The animated nativity scene of Castel Raniero, also known as "Il Piccolo Presepe Animato", is a small mechanical nativity scene set up every year in the church of the hamlet of Castel Raniero, on the hills south of Faenza, in Romagna. It is part of the network of nativity scenes that make up La Strada dei Presepi di Romagna, an itinerary linking various representations of the Nativity between Faenza, Forlì and neighbouring towns. Despite its modest size, it is one of the most beloved stops on the route, especially appreciated by families with children for its intimate atmosphere and attention to detail.
What makes it special
Unlike the large mechanical nativity scenes of Romagna, with imposing scenography and dozens of statues, the one in Castel Raniero focuses on simplicity: it is made with humble materials, wood and paper, handcrafted by those who care for it each year. Despite its compact dimensions, the scene is animated by various movements that unfold during the visit: the alternation between day and night, shepherds working in the fields, a small watercourse flowing and a door that opens to reveal the grotto of the Nativity. The route is designed as a journey: the visitor is guided step by step along the shepherds' path, with ambient sounds such as the sound of bagpipes, the noises of a carpenter's workshop and the bleating of animals grazing, recreating the atmosphere of Palestine at the time of the Nativity.
Origins and history
Available sources do not precisely document who conceived the nativity scene of Castel Raniero nor in which year it was first set up. The project is now maintained by enthusiasts from the hamlet, with a coordinator, Davide, who each year takes care of maintenance and opening to the public. For several editions the nativity scene has been one of the stops on La Strada dei Presepi di Romagna, an initiative linking the mechanical and animated nativity scenes of the Faenza and Forlì area, which reached its tenth edition in 2025: a sign of the deep-rooted nativity scene tradition that characterises the Romagna territory, where small villages and parishes have preserved the art of handcrafted nativity scenes for generations.
What to see
Crossing the threshold of the church of Castel Raniero, visitors find a small-scale scene rich in detail: wooden houses, paths made of moulded paper, lights that change intensity to simulate the passage from day to night. Among the huts, shepherds move about their work, whilst a trickle of water flows along a small stream crossing the landscape. Approaching the grotto, a door opens slowly, almost inviting the gaze towards the Nativity. The sound journey accompanies each phase of the visit, with the sound of bagpipes, the blows in a carpenter's workshop and the cry of animals, creating an intimate atmosphere, closer to a story than a simple exhibition.
When and how to visit
The nativity scene of Castel Raniero traditionally opens on 8 December and remains open until 6 January, on public holidays and the days before, from 2pm to 6pm. This information refers to the last known edition and may vary from year to year, so it is always useful to check updated opening times before visiting, for example through the Facebook page and Instagram profile "Il Piccolo Presepe Animato" or by contacting the coordinator Davide. Admission is free. The church is located at via Castel Raniero 95, in Faenza, in the hilly countryside just a few minutes from the city centre: an ideal excursion to combine with other stops on the Strada dei Presepi di Romagna.
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