The magic atmosphere of Christmas is revived each year, by the crib, the representation of the Nativity, a symbol of Peace. The first cribs date from the 16th Century and were found in Italy and Spain, in churches and principalities. The Nativity is today as it was then a subject of inspiration for many artists and the crib always has a leading role in the woodcarving tradition.
Today many woodcarvers are reviving this centuries-old tradition in works that have a historical flavour and the delicacy of temporary taste.
With the famous displays of wooden cribs, the Gardena Art Woodcarvers’ Association presents its prestigious works in all their various interpretations.
During Advent, in Ortisei there is a particular Christmas atmosphere: along the streets in the town centre the characteristic Tyrolean style cottage windows are dressed, for the display of the prestigious wooden cribs.
During this period it is also possible to visit another most attractive show of cribs, where master craftsmen can be seen at work in the typical Tyrolean ‘stube’.
Gardena Art has also displayed its renowned wooden cribs at Carpi, Sassuolo, San Giovanni in Persiceto, Venice, Milan at the Piazza Duomo, Klagenfurt in Carinthia, Austria and in Rosenheim (Germany).
