In depth
What it is
Presepepaese is the living nativity scene of Mondolfo, a medieval village in the Marche region in the province of Pesaro e Urbino, just a few minutes from the sea and from the Marotta-Mondolfo motorway exit on the A14. The performance takes place in the historic centre, entirely within the ancient castle walls, starting from the Porta Santa Maria gateway. It is organised by the Parrocchia di Santa Giustina together with the Comune di Mondolfo and is described as the largest living nativity scene on the Adriatic coast.
What makes it special
What makes this nativity scene unique are above all its size and setting. Over 190 volunteer participants bring to life a route of approximately 1.3 kilometres that winds through alleyways, stairways and taverns of the fortified village, expanded in the fifteenth century according to the design of architect Francesco di Giorgio Martini. During the performance the public lighting is switched off and the streets are lit only by hundreds of torches, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere reminiscent of painted nativity scenes. Another element that strikes visitors is the choice to entrust the role of Baby Jesus to a real newborn, held in the arms of a local couple in the roles of Mary and Joseph.
Origins and history
Presepepaese was created on the initiative of the Parrocchia di Santa Giustina in the mid-1990s: in 2024 the event celebrated its thirtieth anniversary and the Christmas 2025 edition is the thirty-first. The sources consulted do not mention the name of a single creator, but describe an event that has grown over time thanks to the work of volunteers and local associations, who over the years have expanded the number of scenic tableaux and participants and modified the itinerary within the walls several times, up to the current route of over one kilometre. In 2023 Mondolfo dedicated a special edition to the eighth centenary of the first living nativity scene in history, created by Saint Francis of Assisi in Greccio in 1223, while the 2025 edition was part of the Giubileo della Speranza.
What to see
Along the route, punctuated by torchlight, visitors pass through scenes of everyday life from the past and ancient crafts set in the old houses and taverns of the village, up to the Nativity, the final tableau with the Holy Family and the newborn child. The path winds between Porta Santa Maria, the castle stairways and via Grande, in a succession of settings brought to life by costumed participants.
When and how to visit
Presepepaese is usually held during the Christmas period, between Santo Stefano and Epiphany, with only two performance dates each year; these should always be checked on official channels as they may change from one edition to another. In the latest edition, the 31st, performances were scheduled for 26 December 2025 and 4 January 2026, from 5.30 pm to 7 pm, with reserve dates in case of rain. Admission is free. The historic centre of Mondolfo is located just a few minutes from the Marotta-Mondolfo motorway exit on the A14.
