Aragon is an undisputed reference in the art of nativity scenes. From the imposing Nativity scene in the Plaza del Pilar, with its more than 100 life-size figures, to the nostalgic Playmobil nativity scenes and the charming living nativity scenes, the community has a wide range of unique experiences for Christmas lovers. However, among all these Nativity scenes, there is one that shines with its own light in the province of Huesca and captivates all visitors for being the largest Nativity scene in Spain: the Monzón Nativity scene.
This Huesca town of almost 18,0000 inhabitants is emerging every year as an essential destination for
Christmas fans, since in addition to being part of the Aragon Nativity Scene Route, it has earned its fame as the birthplace of the largest nativity scene in Spain thanks to the 7,000 figures that form part of this composition.
MONZÓN NATIVITY SCENE: WITH 7,000 FIGURES AND ALMOST 900 SQUARE METERS
The Nativity scene in Monzón extends over an area of almost 900 square metres , becoming a giant miniature village that recreates not only the nativity scene, but also a whole series of biblical and historical images. However, what makes the Nativity scene in Monzón unique is its amazing collection of more than 7,000 figures no larger than 30 centimetres, each carefully placed to bring to life different biblical scenes from the Annunciation, the flight to Egypt or representations of daily life with agricultural tasks, buildings in the Cinca Medio or the representation of the traditional Aragonese navatas.
This Nativity scene is not only large in size, but also in detail. Visitors can admire meticulously crafted landscapes, from deserts and oases to mountains and villages. The attention to detail is such that even small scenes of daily life can be observed, such as markets, artisans’ workshops and shepherds tending their flocks.
A CHILD’S ILLUSION: THIS IS HOW THE NATIVITY SCENE IN MONZÓN CAME ABOUT
Although it may seem like a simple task to gather such a large number of figures, the Nativity scene in Monzón takes more than 60 years of work and enthusiasm to become such a monumental composition. It was in 1960 when the little 12-year-old from Monzón, Manolo Campos, placed a small improvised Nativity scene on the windowsill of his house.
Collecting figurines was his passion, and little by little the austere nativity scene grew until it became an interesting exhibition at home. This is how, from a small child’s dream, Monzón obtained his monumental nativity scene, later declared an Activity of Tourist Interest in Aragon.
DATES AND TIMES OF THE NATIVITY SCENE IN MONZÓN
The Nativity scene in Monzón opens its doors to the public only during the Christmas season. It can be visited in Plaza Manolo Campo S/N in Monzón (Huesca) from November 29 to January 6 at various times:
Until December 20 : Fridays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m .; Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
From December 21 to January 6: daily from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Due to the popularity of Spain’s largest nativity scene, it is advisable to plan your visit in advance, especially during the peak days of the Christmas season. Many visitors take the opportunity to combine their visit to the Nativity scene in Monzón with a tour of other Christmas attractions in the community.
The Nativity scene in Monzón is not just a tourist attraction; it is a testament to the love for tradition and craftsmanship that characterizes this region of Spain. Every year, thousands of visitors are amazed by this Christmas spectacle, making Monzón an essential destination for all those looking to experience the magic of Christmas at its best.