Holy Cross exhibit examines Italian nativity scenes

Correspondent Nancy Sheehan tours "The Italian Presepe: Cultural Landscapes of the Soul," an exhibition of photographs and artifacts on view at the Cantor Gallery at the College of the Holy Cross through Dec. 17, 2014. 

For many Italians, the most important symbol of Christmas is the presepe although Christmas trees, rooted in Nordic culture, are taking hold in some places, she writes. The presepe's 13th century beginnings when St. Francis of Assisi is said to have staged the first living nativity scene during a Christmas Eve Mass. 

Learn more about the Italian presepe tradition on Catholics & Cultures.