Photos: Portuguese Presépio Nativity Scene
In an effort to teach Bermudian children about the many holiday traditions that exist on the island and around the world, grade three students from Mount Saint Agnes recently paid a visit to the home of Isabel Almeida, whose living room features a large and highly detailed presépio nativity scene.
The creation of these works of art is a long standing tradition held by some Portuguese families on the island, and the Almeida family have been building these nativity and village scenes for over thirty years .
The children, escorted by teacher Mrs. Marina Resendes, were amazed at the detail and sheer size of Ms. Almeida’s beautiful presépio, raising questions concerning how exactly she was able to construct her masterpiece.
Hosting grade three students for the second time in two years, Ms. Almeida explained the building process to the children, highlighting the fact that the intricate display took her a full week of long nights to construct.
Made of tables, boxes, plywood, and other simple supplies, the presépio is a breathtaking sight whose appearance belies its inherent simplicity.
More than a simple nativity scene, Ms. Almeida’s presépio using figurines and other materials, tells the story of different periods throughout the life of Jesus, depicts traditional activities in the Azores including a marching band, a school, a farm and more.
Click to enlarge photos:
This is beyond beautiful i never knew people do this type of thing. Would be nice to see more pictures like this from the portuguese families
We do have one more set of photos, from last year, of a different presépio from the Resendes family. That photo gallery is here.
Stella Maris Catholic Church also has a small one, the church parishioners normally have it ready prior to the Evening Walk About. It’s not as large, but it’s beautiful! All are welcome to enjoy and have a look.
It’s one of my favourite Portuguese traditions. They work very hard to do this and take great pride in it. In the Acores they are shared with an open houses which the village is invited to come view and share in the spirit of Christmas. A lovely old tradition. This is a beautiful presepio
We have such rich cultures here, it would be great to see more people sharing in their cultures and traditions on such a wonderful time of year.
That’s pretty cool! Great Job.
Very beautiful!!!
Very nice job!