Since December 8 you can see in San Lorenzo del Escorial el monumental nativity scene which is installed on the occasion of the Christmas parties.
This year the nativity scene celebrates its 27th edition, and it has become one of the most attractive events that can be seen during the Christmas parties in the Community of Madrid.
Until January 7 In the central area of this town in the mountains of Madrid you can visit this artistic work that occupies almost 5.000 square meters.
Currently, the Monumental Nativity Scene of San Lorenzo del Escorial it's considered Regional Tourist Interest, and is visited by more than 80.000 people.
All the information in detail
Curiosities history of the Monumental Nativity Scene of San Lorenzo de El Escorial
The origins of this Belén They date back to the middle of the last century when popular initiatives began to organize events for Christmas.
Initially, a traditional nativity scene in a corner of the Town Hall Square, but later thematic nativity scenes were set up in the cross square in which different people were honored, national or local institutions.
By then the holidays they already occupied the streets and squares of San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
It was in 1997 when the Zipi-Zape Friends Group called on a series of local artists to promote the first Monumental Nativity Scene, which has been growing during the following years.
Although it was suspended in 2020 due to the pandemic, the following year it was installed on a limited basis, and last year it returned in all its splendor, which happens again this year in 2023.
What is it like and where to see the Monumental Nativity Scene of El Escorial
El Monumental Bethlehem has more than 500 figures of people and animals that can be seen in the streets and squares of the center of San Lorenzo del Escorial; There are also houses, orchards, bridges, a mill with water, the Castle of Herod and, of course, the Portal of Bethlehem.
You can see them in the most central area of the town, specifically between the Constitution Plaza, where is the town hall, And the San Lorenzo square y Jacinto Benavente, with the axis of the Queen Victoria Street.
In the aforementioned Jacinto Benavente Square lies the Portal of Bethlehem, Whereas the Castle of Herod, with the Roman troops, is located in the Constitution Plaza.
Throughout the area there are various typical scenes of nativity scenes, such as the Annunciation of the Angel to the shepherds, or the most diverse professions.
El Monumental Bethlehem It is the main event that takes place during the Christmas festivities in San Lorenzo de Navidad, but other series of activities are also carried out.
Thus, in addition to the Christmas lights, which opens on December 2, are installed other nativity scenes, like that of the House of Culture, and there is also concerts and musical performances, the main headquarters being Royal Coliseum of Carlos III, Theater auditorium and the aforementioned House of Culture.
The festivities are completed with the traditional Three Kings.
Here you can check the Christmas Festivities Program 2023 in San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
Photos Monumental Nativity Scene of San Lorenzo de El Escorial
Here you have more photos of scenes from the Monumental Bethlehem of Christmas.
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