Sculpted in different materials, the figures that, according to Christian tradition, depict the scene of Jesus’ birth are displayed in nativity scenes throughout Brazil. They are found both in public spaces and in the privacy of homes.

The Presépio Natural Mãos de Deus (“Hands of God Natural Nativity Scene”) in Grão Mogol, Minas Gerais state, is known as the world’s largest permanent, open-air nativity scene, covering an area of 3,600 square meters. The figures are carved in stone.

Conceived by businessman Lúcio Marcos Bemquerer, who died in 2021, the nativity scene complex is 30 meters high. The entire construction was donated to the state’s Archdiocese of Montes Claros.
 

“Hands of God Natural Nativity Scene. Arquidiocese de Montes Claros/Divulgação

Movement

The artwork is the main attraction for religious tourism in the region and is reported to have seen a 20-percent surge in visitors every year. In 2024, tourism increased the number of jobs in the sector by at least 50 percent.

Another option for visitors is the Som, Luz e Movimento (“Sound, Light, and Movement”) nativity scene, with free admission, by Brasília’s Arautos do Evangelho (“Heralds of the Gospel”) group. The characters are sculpted in plaster and presented in motion. The scenes are narrated and electronically automated, with technology imported from the US.

At home

Inside their homes, Brazilians have also continued to cultivate the tradition, even in times when screens have become so ubiquitous. Not surprisingly, the meaning of the nativity scene is constantly being reinterpreted. One of the enthusiasts of nativity scenes, Federal Representative Chico Alencar shared a text and a video on social media featuring actress Fernanda Montenegro, a grande dame of Brazilian drama.

“The nativity scene denounces an unequal society. There are Mary, Joseph, and the baby – a family without land or shelter. It’s near where the shepherds of the night live, on the margins, to protect their sheep from ravenous wolves,” she states, based on the text written by her congressman friend.
 

 

 

 

 

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Um post compartilhado por Chico Alencar (@chico.alencar)

On canvas

Another tribute to nativity scenes in 2025 was inspired by Rio de Janeiro artist Cora Azedo. Using vibrant colors and black angels, she produced the work in acrylic on canvas.

The canvas was sent to an exhibition of nativity scenes in João Pessoa, Paraíba state. “This is the second nativity scene I’ve made,” said the artist, who is an admirer of naïve art.