Sorrento - Eventi free - Feste di paese - Mercatini di Natale - mostra
From 1December 2025 to 18 January 2026, Villa Fiorentino in Sorrento becomes the heart of Christmas tradition with the exhibition “Giuseppe Ercolano and the Masters of the Nativity”, curated by Neapolitan artist Giuseppe Ercolano.
The exhibition tells a story made of faith, craftsmanship and cultural identity, offering a unique journey into the world of the Neapolitan nativity scene – a UNESCO-recognised artistic heritage – and on the Christmas traditions of the Sorrento peninsula.
The project was first presented on Lake Como last Christmas and welcomed with great enthusiasm. Today, it returns to Sorrento, its land of origin, offering the public an authentic and emotional experience through traditional craftsmanship and artistic innovation.
“Giuseppe Ercolano and the Masters of the Nativity” at Villa Fiorentino – Christmas 2025 in Sorrento
The exhibition is divided into three main sections, located across the floors of Villa Fiorentino:
Exhibition Structure: A Journey Through Art and Tradition
Ground Floor – The Neapolitan Nativity Scene
Dedicated entirely to the 18th-century Neapolitan nativity scene, this section features intricate baroque settings, detailed handcrafted figures and symbolic interpretations of everyday life in historical Naples.
First Floor – Traditions in Dialogue: Nativity Art Across Italy
This level displays nativity scenes from different Italian regions, highlighting artistic diversity and cultural interpretations of the Nativity. The exhibition also includes scenes inspired by major Italian literature, such as Manzoni’s The Betrothed and Collodi’s Pinocchio.
Basement – The Charm of Paper Nativity Scenes
A fascinating section dedicated to paper nativity scenes, including 19th- and 20th-century chromolithographs, early 1950s paper cribs and a life-sized painted nativity installation. An educational video enriches the visit with historical context and visual storytelling.
FAQ
The exhibition opens on 1 December 2025 and will be open to visitors until 18 January 2026 every day (including holidays) at these times: from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00. On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays the opening will be extended until 8pm. On 24 and 31 December opening only in the morning; on 25 December 2025 and 1 January 2026 opening only in the afternoon starting from 5pm. Entrance is free for residents of the Sorrento Peninsula.
The over 250 figures on display, the richness of the scenography and the dialogue between ancient and modern make this exhibition an unmissable event for families, art enthusiasts, tourists and the curious.
Where is the event held?
At Villa Fiorentino, headquarters of Fondazione Sorrento.
Is the entrance free?
Yes, admission is free for residents of the Sorrento Peninsula. Entry fees for non-residents may apply.
What can I see at the exhibition?
Traditional Neapolitan nativity scenes, Italian regional cribs, paper nativity scenes, and a life-sized artistic installation.
Is the exhibition suitable for families?
Yes, it is ideal for families, children, art lovers and anyone interested in Italian Christmas traditions.