TRADITIONAL
FRANCISCAN
NATIVITY SCENE 2025
802 Years of Tradition.
LIVE ITS HISTORY.
VISIT THE CHURCH!
SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH
Piazza Marco Berardi
Cosenza, Calabria, Italy
In May 2025, maestro Mario Parise passed away after a serious illness, bringing to a halt the creation of the Nativity scene that for years had moved and united our community.
This year (2025), however, the Nativity scene will still be displayed thanks to the dedication of some church volunteers. We warmly invite you to come and visit it, to admire it and feel the peace of our place of worship.
Visit our portal, where you will find videos and a fascinating documentary in which Maestro Mario Parise recounts the making of the Nativity scene, revealing its history, details, and above all, the love he put into every gesture. A precious story preserved as a living testimony of his faith and his art.
IN MEMORY OF MY FATHER
October was a special month for my father. While for many it marked the beginning of autumn, for him it was the start of a dream that renewed itself every year: the construction of the Nativity Scene at the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi in Cosenza. Even at 83, with the same passion as always, he began working tirelessly, attending to every detail, because for him that Nativity Scene was not just a display—it was an act of love, faith, and giving to others.
Unfortunately, in May 2025, after a brief but harsh battle with illness, my father left us. With his passing, the construction of that great Nativity Scene also came to a halt—a scene that, for so many years, had touched hearts and united our community. I still remember how he welcomed every visitor, explaining with enthusiasm the deep meaning of Christmas and the Franciscan Nativity, transforming a simple visit into an experience that reached the heart.
For the last fifty years, every year from October until February 2, he dedicated himself entirely to the Nativity Scene. As early as July, I would often call him and, jokingly, ask if he had started preparing. He would laugh, say yes, and excitedly tell me about the ideas he already had in mind for Christmas. As a child, I remember that he would reserve fifteen days of his summer vacation to use during the most demanding phase of construction in October. Back then, I didn’t understand why, but today it’s clear: the answer was his faith and his love for Jesus and our community.
He did this as a volunteer, for many years with the help of neighborhood friends and many others, but over time, even when he was alone, he continued with the simplicity and joy of someone who feels called to give something beautiful to others. The schools and children, who each January eagerly awaited the moment to discover his world of lights and figurines, will feel his absence deeply.
With his passing, the city loses one of its most cherished traditions, an important expression of its cultural identity. While I cannot continue my father’s legacy in Cosenza for the joy of my fellow citizens, his tradition lives on across the ocean through the creation of a small Nativity Scene at my home, shared with the world through this portal, in his memory. Dad, I promise that as long as I am here, I will carry forward your legacy, keep it alive, and you will continue to shine with Mom in every light of the Nativity Scene.
A special thanks goes to Father Francesco Caloiero, to the entire church for their constant support, and to everyone who over the years supported and helped my father. His spirit remains alive in the lights, the figurines, and the emotions that will continue to bring joy to generations of people and visitors to this portal. I sincerely hope that someone in Cosenza will one day carry on his legacy and continue to revive the magic that he, with so much love, gave us every year in our beautiful church and city.
In this video, my father talks about the construction of the Nativity Scene at San Francesco d’Assisi in Cosenza, explaining its history, the details, and above all the love he put into every gesture. A precious story, which I now cherish as a living testimony of his faith and his art.
- INTRODUCTION
- NATIVITY SCENE
- INAUGURATION NATIVITY
- NATIVITY SCENE ORIGINS
- IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
NATIVITY DOCUMENTARY
- CHAPTER I - DEPOSITION
- CHAPTER II - CONSTRUCTION
- CHAPTER III - THE HISTORY
- CHAPTER IV - THE ROUTINE
- CHAPTER V - THE WORK
- CHURCH AND NATIVITY
- PREVIEW
- FILM COLLECTION
- WHERE WE ARE
- PARKING
= Video/Film
= Reading/Information
INTRODUCTION
The nativity scene conceived by St. Francis of Assisi in Greccio in 1223 turns 802. Celebrate the eight-hundred-second anniversary of its first representation and don't miss the opportunity to experience the tradition through our nativity scene, set up at the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi in Cosenza!
The main objective of this portal is to involve everyone in the timeless story of the Nativity, a fascinating tradition that transcends generations and embodies the values of compassion, humility, and love. The Nativity scene encapsulates the very essence of Christmas: the celebration of hope and the miracle of birth, prompting us to reflect on the deeper meanings woven into this timeless work of art.
This platform is a heartfelt tribute to my father, Mario Parise, who passed away in May 2025 after a serious illness, and to the exceptional group of volunteers and friends from the neighborhood. It is also a tribute to dear friends Mr. Filippo Caruso and Mr. Salvatore Marcello, artistic assistants, and Mr. Giuseppe Mucci, chief electrician, who will always remain in our hearts.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Mr. Claudio Leone and Mr. Giuseppe Biamonte, who for decades collaborated with Mario Parise and others in creating numerous nativity scenes. A special thanks also goes to the seasonal collaborators Mr. Franco Tucci, Salvatore Laratta, and Marcello Cucunato for their commitment and dedication.
Volunteers in the 1980s: neighborhood friends with Father Francesco Caloiero, Father Antonio Martella, Mario Parise, and myself.
With the passing of Master Mario Parise, the creation of that great Nativity scene, which for many years had moved and united our community, comes to an end. The tradition, however, continues, albeit on a smaller scale, thanks to the dedication of some volunteers from the neighborhood.
This portal constitutes both a tribute and a thank-you to Father Francesco Caloiero, as well as to all the parish priests and clergy of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi in Cosenza, for their continuous support in the organization and realization of this extraordinary work.
Disclaimer:
This portal is currently not affiliated with the official website of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi in Cosenza, nor is it a part of it. As mentioned, it is instead a dedicated space as a tribute to my father, Maestro Mario Parise, and to all the volunteers who have contributed to the construction of the nativity scene over the years.
My commitment as a volunteer in creating this portal dedicated to the Franciscan nativity scene and the beautiful church of San Francesco d'Assisi represents my way of paying homage to my original neighborhood, to which I will always be connected. I want to thank my family, along with all the other families and dear friends of the San Francesco d'Assisi neighborhood in Cosenza, who have made it so special over the years.
NATIVITY
The 2024 Nativity scene was the last creation by Master Mario Parise, who passed away in May 2025 due to illness.
Some of the Nativity’s features included a return to its original 1980s location (a historic site also presented in Chapter III of our documentary) and a more accurate reproduction of the manger and the visit of the shepherds at the birth of Jesus. The event was depicted by Master Parise in a manner faithful to the account in the Gospel of Luke (2:1–20), which narrates the appearance of an angel to the shepherds as they watched over their flocks by night. The angel announced the birth of Jesus, telling them they would find the child wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. The passage describing the shepherds’ arrival confirms that they entered the place where Jesus was born and found the child in the manger, just as the angel had revealed.
Gospel according to Luke 2:1–20
“When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go, then, to Bethlehem and see this event which the Lord has made known to us.’” (Luke 2:15)
“They went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger.” (Luke 2:16)
Below are several photographs of Master Mario Parise, the last full-time volunteer, who at the age of 83 continued to devote himself with great passion to the creation of the traditional Franciscan Nativity scene—an artwork brought to life through a meticulous process of craftsmanship.
The work began with the assembly of steel pipes that formed the supporting structure, followed by the construction of the wooden scaffolding, an essential element for sustaining the entire composition. The base was then covered with packing paper to create a realistic rock effect and to recreate the environment surrounding the birth of Jesus.
In the final stage, the Nativity scene took shape with the addition of moss, small trees, and houses, while an electrical system illuminated the scenery and a hydraulic system created a small stream and pond. The shepherds, carefully arranged, represented various moments of the Nativity: the larger figures were placed in the foreground to be admired by visitors, while the smaller ones were set in the background, each with its own symbolism and meaning, enriching the work with deep spirituality and tradition.
Photos by Daniele Iantorno
INAUGURATION
From left to right: Mayor's delegate, City Councilor Francesco Turco, Father Francesco Caloiero, His Excellency Monsignor Giovanni Checchinato, Father Luigi Laricchia, Father Antonio Martella (behind), Don Luca Perri, and Mario Parise (Nativity Scene Creator). Photo: Emilio and Daniele Iantorno.
Inauguration of the Nativity Scene: After the Mass, the nativity scene, created with great care and devotion, is officially "opened" to the public. This moment is marked by a prayer and blessing, during which the priest or celebrant invokes divine blessing on all those present and on the nativity scene, symbol of the Nativity of Christ.
Prayer before the Nativity Scene: The faithful approach the Nativity scene to pray and reflect on Christmas. This may include a personal or community prayer, such as the "Our Father," a moment of silence, or a special prayer to ask for God's blessing for families and the community.
Songs and Reflection: Sometimes, Christmas carols are performed, which recall the theme of the Nativity. The songs and reflections help the faithful to enter into the spirit of Christmas, strengthening the sense of community and spirituality.
Visit to the Nativity Scene: After the ceremony, many people approach the nativity scene to admire its details and meditate on the profound meaning of each figure.
This tradition, which combines religious meaning with preparation for Christmas, is an opportunity to pray together, renew faith and reflect on the message of peace and hope that Christmas brings to everyone.
ORIGINS
The Franciscan nativity scene has deep roots connected to Saint Francis of Assisi, who is often considered the creator of the first representation of the nativity. According to tradition, in 1223 in Greccio, Italy, Saint Francis arranged a scene depicting the Nativity of Jesus with live animals and people, aiming to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ in a tangible and accessible manner for ordinary people. This event is commonly regarded as the beginning of the nativity tradition.
The significance of the Franciscan nativity extends beyond a mere artistic representation. Saint Francis aimed to bring people closer to the simplicity and humility of Jesus' birth, embodying the values of poverty and humility that characterized his spiritual vision. Thus, the nativity becomes a symbol of the joy of Christ's birth and the humility of his arrival into the world.
Archival image. The artist and maestro Mario Parise during a phase of constructing the Nativity scene.
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
The feast of the Immaculate Conception, celebrated on December 8th, commemorates the Catholic dogma that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin, preserved from all stain of sin from the moment of her conception. This feast emphasizes Mary's purity and holiness, as she was purified by God in preparation for her mission as the mother of Jesus.
It is a day of great spiritual significance for Catholics, symbolizing the hope of redemption for all of humanity through divine grace. The feast is also an occasion for prayer and reflection on Mary's role in the salvation of humanity.
S.E. Mons. Giovanni Checchinato.
Christmas floral decorations by Anna Parise, L'Angolo dei Fiori, Cosenza. Photo: Emilio and Daniele Iantorno.
Below is the representation of the Holy Mass for the inauguration of the last edition of the Nativity scene by Master Mario Parise, 2024 edition, celebrated by H.E. Mons. Giovanni Checchinato, Father Francesco Caloiero, and Don Luca Perri. Also in attendance were Father Antonio Martella, Father Luigi Laricchia, Professor Maria Pernice Priora of the Confraternity of Santa Caterina, the members of the Confraternity of Santa Caterina, Secretary Salvatore Lanzillotta, and the mayor’s delegate, City Councilor Francesco Turco.
DECORATIONS
Our project began in 2024, when my wife and I decided to take care of the decorations for the church’s main altar. We did this with the desire to make everyone who entered feel the joy of Christmas: through the Nativity scene, the beauty of the church, the decorations, and a bright, festive atmosphere that reflected the light and deep meaning of Jesus’ birth.
Thanks to the professionalism and valuable support of Anna Parise from L'Angolo dei Fiori in designing the decorations, our vision came to life. Her attention to detail and experience in floral arrangements enriched the main altar, giving it new elegance, harmony, and a strong sense of festivity. All of this helped create a welcoming and serene environment, perfectly in keeping with the spirit of the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi in Cosenza.
We hope to continue this project in the years to come, keeping alive an atmosphere capable of welcoming every visitor and conveying, through the Nativity scene and the decorations, all the beauty and meaning of Christmas.
Come and visit the Nativity scene, our beautiful church, and admire the Christmas decorations, to experience something unique and immerse yourself in the special atmosphere of Christmas.
Christmas Decorations. Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, Cosenza.
BERSAGLIERI
We are pleased to share with the visitors of our website a small selection of videos from the beautiful performance of the Fanfara dei Bersaglieri, a unit of the Italian Army based in Cosenza, which performs during the Christmas holidays at our church. The videos include the event of December 16, 2024, followed by a much larger repertoire from 2023.
The repertoire of the Fanfara dei Bersaglieri mainly consists of military marches, but it also includes popular and Christmas pieces, such as those performed during the holiday season. During the performance, Christmas songs were played, along with famous hits like "La vita è bella" (Nicola Piovani) and a charming Neapolitan music piece, offering a blend of tradition and engaging music. A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and celebrate the beauty of music.
The Bersaglieri are a corps of the Italian Army, created in 1836 by order of Carlo Alberto of Savoy, with the task of being a light and highly mobile infantry force. Famous for their speed and characteristic running with the rifle on the shoulder, the Bersaglieri are distinguished by the plumed hat, which is their most recognizable symbol. Today, the Bersaglieri are an elite unit with support tasks in various operational scenarios.
Padre Francesco Caliero, Mario Parise and friends with the "Fanfara dei Bersaglieri."
Mario Parise (creator of the nativity scene) with the "Fanfara dei Bersaglieri."
The characteristic march of the "Fanfara dei Bersaglieri." Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, Cosenza.
In a fascinating journey through the magnificent setting of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, this mini-documentary is divided into five engaging chapters. The first depicts the 'Deposition of the Baby Jesus' in the manger, a touching moment of immense cultural and religious significance celebrated during the midnight mass on Christmas Eve, between the 24th and 25th of December. Personally produced by me, this documentary stands as a heartfelt tribute dedicated to my beloved father and to my mother, who will forever live in my heart...
The second chapter provides an in-depth look at the meticulous "Construction of the Nativity Scene," narrated directly by Maestro Mario Parise, taking us into the workshops and underground rooms of the church, where every element, from the little houses to the paper, from the electrical setup to the shepherds, comes to life...
The third chapter briefly presents 'The History' of the various areas of the church that have housed previous nativity scenes, dating back from as far as 1970 up to the current work...
The fourth chapter of the documentary provides a glimpse into maestro Mario Parise's daily routine during the Christmas season and beyond. With tireless dedication, he ensures that the nativity is always ready and accessible to visitors.
Finally, the fifth chapter leads us to the conclusion, presenting the work in its entirety. This phase is enriched by the authoritative contributions of renowned local and regional journalistic sources, offering an additional perspective on the creation and consolidating the importance and value of the work.
This video, filmed in the artistic heart of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi in Cosenza, founded in 1217, offers a close-up look at the nativity scene and the incredible artistic beauty of this sacred place. In addition to showcasing the nativity scene, it will take you on a fascinating virtual journey through the most evocative and captivating areas of the church, exploring its architectural and artistic wonders.
The preview (archival) exhibition of the nativity scene housed in the prestigious Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, located in Cosenza, Calabria, Italy, represents an extraordinary experience steeped in tradition, infusing magic into the souls of both adults and children, becoming an unmissable event.
Although it is an archival preview, many of the traditional and classic representations of the Franciscan nativity, featured in this footage, form an important integral part of the new nativity scene, including that of Christmas 2023. This preview offers a suggestive and precious glimpse into the scenes that will also constitute the essence of the new nativity work destined for this upcoming Christmas.
VIDEOS
Explore the Magic of the Nativity Scene: Our video collection brings together all the emotions, details, and atmosphere of the previous sections, listed below.
LOCATION
The Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, a remarkable architectural example, is located in the central nucleus of the historic center of Cosenza, specifically situated in Piazza Marco Berardi. Access to the church can be made through various ways, primarily from the Mancini Bridge or from Valdesi Square.
Padre Francesco Caloiero and Mario Parise
For a better experience during your visit, we invite you to check the satellite image below (click on it to enlarge), followed by the Google map, and finally the parking section for additional information. The map will assist you in easily locating our position, while the parking section provides useful details for convenient arrival at our site. Thank you for your attention, and we hope these resources will be helpful during your visit.
Satellite image showing access routes to the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi.
PARKING
Visitors are strongly advised to park their vehicles before reaching Piazza Marco Berardi due to the narrow road layout of the historic center, which could lead to traffic congestion. Please refer to the diagram above indicating recommended parking areas. We strongly discourage parking in the area marked in red. Instead, it's advisable to use the green zone to find parking, which is generally more available. Click on the image below to enlarge map.
Parking Map. Click to enlarge the image.
AERIAL VIEW
The aerial view of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi offers a suggestive and fascinating perspective. The church and the surrounding convent complex emerge as an island of history and spirituality within the urban fabric. The architectural structure of the church, with its distinctive bell tower and majestic domes, stands in contrast to the surrounding buildings. The roofs of ancient houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and courtyards intertwine around the church, creating a captivating mosaic of past epochs and the present.
The Church of San Francesco d'Assisi occupies a central position, and from the aerial view, one can appreciate the architectural details such as the facades, stained glass windows, and the relative dimensions of the complex. The surrounding squares, branching streets, and the small details of Cosenza's historic center are evident, while the church remains a focal point of historical and cultural reference in the city.
Google Map Satellite Images