In the Monchique mountains, more precisely in the village of Alferce, Christmas takes on a special dimension with the traditional Village Nativity Scene. This creation, which can be visited until January 8, 2025, is more than a simple representation of the Nativity. This nativity scene is a living testimony to the community spirit and dedication of the local inhabitants, who year after year renew this tradition with elements that evoke the essence of rural life, and which include the presence of chickens.
The nativity scene, located in the old Caixa Agrícola building, stands out for its unique characteristics, such as moving figures and genuinely rural details, including the emblematic chickens. These choices are not mere decorations, but rather a tribute to the region’s cultural roots. As described by it is “an original nativity scene that even has chickens to see in the Algarve mountains”.
Anyone wishing to visit this cultural event can do so from Monday to Friday, from 9:30 am to 4 pm, and on weekends, between 10 am and 5 pm. For more information, the Alferce Parish Council telephone numbers are available: 282 912 126 and 962 149 142. The Council emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the creation of this work, which combines creativity and respect for tradition.
The uniqueness of the nativity scene is not limited to its visual appearance. It is, above all, an expression of the unity of a village that, in a joint effort, brings to life one of the most iconic symbols of Christmas. As highlighted by Monchique City Hall, this nativity scene “is a regional reference that celebrates the tradition and culture of the Algarve mountains”.
For those who cannot visit the site, a video titled Nativity scene in Aldeia do Alferce allows you to take a look at this fascinating creation, offering a unique perspective on the cultural richness it embodies.
In the context of a time so marked by consumerism, the Alferce Nativity scene stands out as an authentic celebration of Christmas, rooted in tradition and local identity. This is an invitation to a trip to the heart of the Algarve, where the Christmas spirit is lived with simplicity and genuineness.
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