From the Diocese of Nocera Inferiore–Sarno, the Nativity Scene in St Peter’s Square

A Message of Peace

A message of peace, fraternity, and harmony comes from the Nativity scene set up this year in St Peter’s Square. Its creation was a collective effort by the Diocese of Nocera Inferiore–Sarno. Representing the entire local community it offers figures of holiness through its art, its agricultural products, its traditions and its various cultural expressions.

Interviewed on www.vaticanstate.va, the designer of the Nativity scene, architect Angelo Santitor.

How did the idea of creating a Nativity scene connected to the territory of Nocera Inferiore come about?

In the Agro Nocerino-Sarnese area, the tradition of Christmas has always been deeply felt. Throughout the territory, during the Christmas season, a widespread exhibition of Nativity scenes takes shape. The works range from the classic Neapolitan crèche to the ones inspired by the historic setting in the Holy Land, to more modern interpretations. Some glimpses of our towns become true Nativity scenes themselves.

When Monsignor Giuseppe Giudice, Bishop of Nocera Inferiore–Sarno—whom I am sincerely thankful for this opportunity —proposed that I design the crèche for St Peter’s Square, I immediately began thinking about how to represent the entire Agro, the Diocese, the territory in the Nativity scene set up at the center of the Christian world, and how to bring a breath of the atmosphere that fills our land on Christmas night.

The first inspiration was a return to childhood—because when one creates a Nativity scene, one becomes a child again. In my mind, the quintessential Christmas song Tu scendi dalle stelle resounded. Written by Saint Alphonsus Maria de’ Liguori, whose life as an architect, artist, musician greatly influenced my own formation. Starting from this element, I then sought to identify meaningful symbols that would represent our territory so that every inhabitant of the Agro could recognize themselves in this crèche.

What is the message you wish to convey with this Nativity scene?

In this critical time for our world, our society and our young people, I hope that all of us who pause to admire the Nativity scene—drawn, like the shepherds, to the one true center, He who is true peace—may be struck by a sense of beauty and harmony that gives rise within us to powerful emotions such as joy, wonder and serenity, and that we may then pass these feelings on to all those we meet in the places of our daily lives. May we return to the true meaning of life, where each person is a companion rather than an obstacle to the life of others, just like the courtyard house depicted in the Nativity scene.

How long have you been working on Nativity scene design, and how did you become involved in this art?

I learned the art of crafting Nativity scenes at the Pia Unione Ammalati Cristo Salvezza in Pagani, which I began attending with my brother at the age of ten, welcomed by Don Domenico Cinque, then a seminarian. The Association, founded by the Servant of God Alfonso Russo, created an enormous artistic Nativity scene in the rooms of the Monastery of Purità in Pagani, where one could immerse oneself in the scenes built with shepherd figures of various sizes. Guided by Alfonso, by the Director of the work Gerardo Tipaldi, by the priests of the Association, and by many volunteer brothers, each year a different work was created, covering about 500 square meters. For many years it was recognized as the city’s official crèche.

Which characteristic elements of the Diocese of Nocera Inferiore–Sarno are present in this Nativity scene?

The Agro Nocerino-Sarnese is rich in traditions, art, history, saints and notable figures. I tried to select elements that could best represent all the citizens of the Agro, so that everyone could feel part of the Nativity scene. In addition to the three architectural elements that form the scene and the characters from our land, the typical food and wine products of the area are also represented. In fact, among the offerings of the shepherds to the Baby Jesus are the Nocerino spring onion, the San Marzano tomato, the Corbarino cherry tomato, the artichoke and much more. Also included is the image of the Virgin of the Three Crowns of Sarno, recreated by the master flower artists of the Infiorata of Casatori, a district of San Valentino Torio.

Did you try to depict specific places, such as churches, monuments, or views of the historic center?

The scene was designed to be admired in the round. Three monuments mark the nativity display, expressing the identity of our territory: the Early Christian Baptistery of Nocera Superiore, with the remains of its dome filled with shining stars, where angels descend to proclaim the glory of God; the Helvius Fountain of Sant’Egidio del Monte Albino, where a woman draws the water of new life flowing from the Mystery of the Incarnation; on the left pillar rises the coat of arms with the walnut tree, symbol of the University of Nocera dei Pagani. A typical house from our local courtyards, with a large portal in grey Nocerino tuff, opens into a spacious room where, at the center, Saint Alphonsus Maria de’ Liguori sits at the harpsichord playing Tu scendi dalle stelle, accompanied by two children. Completing the scene is a pendulum clock, reminding us that Saint Alphonsus would recite a Hail Mary at every chime, together with his well-known saying: “Time is as precious as God.”

On the left side of the scene, behind the semicircular structure of the baptistery, an angel announces to the sleeping shepherd and his young helper that “The Word became flesh.” A staircase and an iron gate opening wide symbolize the boundary between the old life and the new life in Christ.

Are there figures or scenes inspired by traditional trades or local characters?

In addition to Saint Alphonsus Maria de’ Liguori, the Saint of Christmas, the display features a shepherd resembling the Servant of God Don Enrico Smaldone of Angri (Education). Accompanied by two children, he prepares to ascend the staircase, pointing to Christ as the sole center of the educational process. Another figure represents the Servant of God Alfonso Russo of Pagani (value of suffering, volunteer service), who accompanies a sick person toward the One True salvation.

A distinctive figure is a fisherman with a large anchor—the Shepherd of Hope—placed between the baptistery and the house, indicating the Holy Door of Saint Peter’s Basilica, symbol of spes non confundit.

Dominating the entire scene is the large luminous comet with its tail, which places the anchor above the Nativity—depicting the Child with the ox and donkey, the three Magi adoring Him, and a shepherdess offering the treasures of the Diocesan territory. Two bagpipers enliven the scene.

What materials do you use to create the nativity scene?

The scene measures 17 meters in length, 12 meters in depth, and reaches 7.70 meters at its highest point. The materials chosen are the classic ones used in nativity scenography: wood, polystyrene and iron.

The main construction technique involves coupling shaped wooden panels with metal structures previously anchored to the ground using tie rods and, above all, bolts fixed to concrete counterweights. Special pieces such as columns, arches, capitals, and details of the fountain are made of EPS (expanded polystyrene foam). The entire surface resulting from the assembly of the panels is then plastered using vinyl and powdered adhesives along with reinforcing mesh for plasterwork.

How long does the design and construction take?

I began working on the project in September 2024 and completed it for presentation to the Bishop in February 2025. After the work was commissioned, it took six months to build.

Are there artisanal elements or particular techniques you wished to highlight?

The shepherd figures are particularly noteworthy. They were crafted by Maestro Federico Iaccarino of Meta di Sorrento, following the classical 18th-century Neapolitan style but innovating by using resin, making them lighter and more resistant to weather.

Did you collaborate with schools, associations, or local artisans for this project?

As a diocesan team, accompanied by our Bishop, we identified professionals and artisans from our region to realize the work, led by the company Seria Pubblicità of Nocera Inferiore. The nativity scene is part of a much broader diocesan project, which will include initiatives involving parishes, schools, and associations—activities coordinated by the diocesan cooperative Priscus.

How did the local community react to seeing their territory represented?

Amazed at the opportunity given, the entire diocesan community is enthusiastic to see a piece of our beloved land showcased in the heart of St. Peter’s Square. Guided by our Bishop Giuseppe and under the protection of our Saints, we joyfully offer this nativity scene to the Holy Father, enclosing within it all the love of the Agro Nocerino-Sarnese for the Vicar of Christ.