Nestled within the breathtaking Royal Palace of Caserta, the Elliptical Room holds one of the most captivating artistic gems of the 18th and 19th centuries: the Royal Nativity Scene. Unique in its kind, this Nativity Scene is the only one commissioned by a royal family, making it a priceless testament to Neapolitan craftsmanship, religious devotion, and royal tradition.
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The Elliptical Room: From Theater to Sacred Display
Originally used as a domestic theatre, the Elliptical Room was transformed each year by the Bourbon kings into a stage for a stunning Nativity installation. The room’s elegant architectural features provided the perfect setting for what would become a highly anticipated annual tradition.
The Royal Nativity Scene: Art, Devotion, and Cultural Heritage
Commissioned and curated by the Bourbon monarchs, the Royal Nativity Scene was not just a religious display—it was a showcase of Neapolitan nativity art.
With contributions from painters, architects, and set designers, the scene featured:
- Figurines with terracotta heads, hands, and feet crafted by master artists like Giuseppe Sanmartino and Francesco Celebrano.
- Wire and tow bodies give the characters lifelike poses.
- A cork-made base known as the scoglio replicates the canonical scenes of the nativity with extreme detail.
Every figure and backdrop was the result of a collaborative process among some of the most renowned artists of the time.
The 1844 Nativity Scene: A Historical Masterpiece Recreated
The current layout of the Royal Nativity Scene draws inspiration from the last documented display in 1844, faithfully reproduced in four gouaches by painter Salvatore Fergola—these rare works are now exhibited alongside the scene, offering visitors both a visual and emotional connection to the Bourbon court’s Christmas tradition.
A Symbol of Royal Patronage and Neapolitan Identity
This extraordinary collection reflects the deep connection between the Bourbon dynasty and Neapolitan cultural identity. The Royal Nativity Scene is more than a religious tableau—it’s a storybook in miniature, preserving the fashions, beliefs, and social customs of a bygone kingdom.
Visiting the Royal Nativity Scene Today
Located inside the Elliptical Room of the Royal Palace of Caserta, the Nativity Scene is open to visitors year-round and becomes especially evocative during the holiday season. Its artistic and historical value make it a must-see for:
- Art lovers and historians
- Families looking for meaningful cultural experiences
- Travelers fascinated by Italian royal history
Plan Your Visit. Don’t miss the chance to witness this unique heritage of faith, art, and royalty. The Royal Nativity Scene is a living tradition that continues to enchant generations.
