Presepe Vivente of Roccapalumba

In the village of Roccapalumba (PA), on 14 and 15 December 2024, from 10.30 a.m. to 11 p.m., the Presepe Vivente “Sotto la Rocca” (“Under the Rock”) will be held, an authentic re-enactment of the Nativity set inside one of the spectacular natural caves of the majestic limestone cliff that overlooks the village. This unique event transforms the historic centre into a cross-section of late 19th century peasant Sicily, offering visitors an emotional journey into the past.

The village’s ancient dwellings will come alive, becoming inns, taverns, blacksmith’s and carpenter’s workshops, bread and pasta workshops, and sheepfolds. More than 80 figurants in period clothing will realistically recreate the ancient trades and scenes of daily life, interacting with visitors and taking them back to a genuine world that has now disappeared.

During the event, participants will be able to taste traditional dishes from the rural and pastoral culture, savouring authentic flavours such as bread, Christmas cakes and other typical specialities. The atmosphere will be made even more evocative by the sound of bagpipes and Christmas dirges in Sicilian dialect, which will echo along the route, offering an emotional tribute to the Infant Jesus.

The Presepe Vivente of Roccapalumba represents a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the Sicilian Christmas tradition, rediscovering local culture and history in an evocative and authentic context.

Roccapalumba, Palermo | 14-15 December 2024