Museu de Betlems, Nativity scene museum in old town, Alicante, Spain.
Museu de Betlems is a museum displaying more than 200 nativity scenes made from materials such as wood, clay, and fabric, each showing different artistic techniques. The collection spans multiple countries and regions, presenting the diversity of this craft tradition across cultures.
The craft of creating nativity scenes began in Spain around the 1300s as a religious practice, later spreading to many other countries. Over centuries, the tradition evolved and took on different forms in each culture that adopted it.
The collection brings together nativity scenes from around the world, reflecting how different cultures have adopted and adapted this religious tradition over time. Walking through the rooms, you notice how each piece carries local artistic traditions and values.
The museum is located in the old town and is easily accessible on foot, with clear labeling throughout the rooms to help visitors navigate. It makes sense to allow unhurried time for viewing, since each piece rewards careful attention.
The building housing this museum contains an ancient water cistern from earlier times that visitors can still see today. Among the displays is a life-size nativity scene created by local artist Pedro Hurtado Carreres.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
