"Francis
1223 - Francis 2013" is the title of this year’s nativity scene in St.
Peter’s Square, marking the first Christmas of the pontificate of Pope
Francis.
For the first time, a Neapolitan crèche will be used in the
exhibit, created by Antonio Cantone of the firm Cantone & Costabile.
The nativity scenes of Naples are world famous, and the material was
donated by the Archbishop of Naples, Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe, with the
support of the president of the Region of Campania, Stefano Caldoro.
The figures will be dressed in the clothing typical of 18th
century Naples.
The scene will be funded largely by donations from
benefactors, limiting the expense of the Governorate of Vatican City
State.
In addition, the Bavarian community of Waldmünchenu has donated
a 25-metre high fir tree, weighing over 7 tons, to the Holy Father.
It arrived in the square on December 6th.