The traditional Tyrolean art of nativity scene building is world renowned and this is almost certainly due to the deep faith of the people in the mountains and their desire to turn the miracle of Christmas into something visible. In the Middle Ages, nativity scenes were made with large figures painted on boards and were initially only built in churches. The tradition finally found its way through monasteries into private homes.
The region around Innsbruck can quite rightly be described as the centre of Tyrolean nativity scene building. Two traditional styles of nativity scenes dominate the picture: Oriental and Tyrolean. Depicting the stable in Bethlehem is not the sole "didactic" goal for nativity scene builders. They also use figures to present other biblical scenes, including the Annunciation with the announcement by the angel Gabriel, the search for an inn, the stable in Bethlehem, the visit from the Three Wise Men and the flight to Egypt. This is why Tyrolean nativity scenes are so diverse and so beautiful.
Even today, it is a tradition in many families to hand carve the nativity figures and to set up the family nativity scene in a creative way each year. Something that usually requires several days of work.
Nativity scenes are at the heart of Christmas customs in Tyrol. Figures made of wood, wax, clay or cardboard populate fantastic landscapes and are constantly being adapted according to the Gospel. These nativity scenes are not only found in private homes, but also in museums, churches and Advent exhibitions. The State Museum in Innsbruck displays a beautiful specimen: a lovingly designed oriental nativity scene.
