Singular sculptures in Malta

In St Francis of Assisi Church a small crib is set up, with a detail that is not usually seen in other cribs. To the side of the traditional Nativity scene, there is a small grotto representing the cave in which St Francis originally recreated the birth of Jesus and the first creche near Rieti in Italy. The small figurines are dressed differently than the other ones in the larger Nativity scene. You can find it in the corridor leading to the church’s convent, which is also worth visiting. The Nativity is a common tradition in Malta, with people setting up Christmas cribs in their home and even in public places during the Christmas period. While pasturi figures are sometimes bought ready-made, others prefer to buy original pieces from local artisans.