Six Maltese nativity scenes are among forty-five works from twenty different countries displayed in a prestigious exhibition being held at the Basilica of Sant’Andrea della Valle in Rome.
Malta’s participation was organised through the Għaqda Ħbieb tal-Presepji Għawdex Malta 1985, with the support of the Ministry for Inclusion and Volunteering, which financed all transport-related costs. The Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering attended the official inauguration of the exhibition, held on Saturday, 6 December 2025.
Eight Maltese volunteers assisted in assembling the exhibition, which includes contributions from countries renowned for their artistic nativity traditions, including Spain, Italy, Austria and Germany. On this occasion, the Nativity Museum in Greccio was also inaugurated, and it houses the Maltese nativity scene installed by the Għaqda Ħbieb tal-Presepju Għawdex Malta 1985. The nativity scene, created by Benny Camilleri, was selected by the local mayor and will form part of the museum’s permanent exhibition.
Julia Farrugia, Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering, stated that it was a source of great satisfaction for the ministry to assist in ensuring that voluntary work such as the crafting of nativity scenes receives recognition of this nature. She noted that volunteers of this kind keep Maltese and Gozitan tradition alive, while the Government, through initiatives such as this, demonstrates the support it offers to the voluntary sector, which forms an integral part of the nation’s identity.
Carmen Camilleri, Secretary of the Għaqda Ħbieb tal-Presepju Għawdex Malta 1985, while explaining the selection process for the Maltese nativity scenes exhibited, expressed gratitude to Minister Farrugia for crucial support, including the funding of necessary transport, which made it possible for Maltese nativity scenes to be presented alongside others in an exhibition of international calibre.
The exhibition will remain open until 2 February 2026 and is expected to attract thousands of visitors.