Pessebre Vivent Pobla de Montornès La Pobla de Montornès

A living nativity scene is the representation of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth using several scenes with live characters and taking advantage of a rustic or architecturally interesting setting such as the old town of a village.

In La Pobla de Montornès we have an incomparable setting for the Living Nativity Scene, the hill where the Hermitage of the Virgin of Montornès is located, just a kilometer from the town center, a completely natural place surrounded by vegetation, pine trees and carob trees next to an old farmhouse.

History

Since 1976, and without interruption except for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Living Nativity Scene has been performed. The Nativity Scene of La Pobla de Montornès is one of the most traditional in Catalonia and has become an icon of our town, projecting its image far beyond the region.

For 35 years, the cultural association Amics de Montornès organized and managed all aspects of the Nativity scene performances. After this period, Amics de Montornès decided to relinquish responsibility for the organization, and since 2013, the entire management has been handled by the Living Nativity Scene Association of La Pobla de Montornès .

Representation

Each season may vary depending on the dates.

It begins on the Sunday before Christmas, and continues on December 25th and 26th, January 1st, and the performances usually end on Three Kings' Day.

The Hermitage can be reached by car or coach. If traveling by coach, we always ask that you inform us before your arrival to facilitate your arrival and parking.

During the final stretch of the road leading to the Hermitage, you will find organizers who will help you park without any difficulty.

Upon arrival, visitors will find a bar service and also WC facilities.

Inside the bar, you can buy souvenirs of the Nativity scene and enjoy the warmth of a wood-burning stove.

Opposite the bar there is a churro shop that delights young and old alike.

A natural space that becomes a stage

The hill where the hermitage is located is one of the Nativity scene's greatest attractions. The landscape, surrounded by pine forests and Mediterranean vegetation, creates an authentic atmosphere that reinforces the biblical nature of the representation. The path to the site is an experience in itself, with a gradual approach to the " village of Bethlehem " that transports visitors to another time.

The power of volunteering

The Living Nativity Scene is made possible by the dedication of over a hundred people who, each year, prepare the sets, costumes, signage, and logistics. This community involvement is one of the event's defining features and what allows it to continue growing and evolving after almost five decades.

An experience for families

The route is suitable for all ages and is known for its warm and festive atmosphere. The presence of the bar, churro stand, and souvenir shop contributes to creating an ideal experience to share with the family during the holidays. Furthermore, the outdoor route allows visitors to enjoy the natural surroundings and the Christmas ambiance in a safe and peaceful setting.

Access and recommendations

Although the chapel is accessible by car, it is recommended to arrive with plenty of time to park comfortably and enjoy the walk to the performance space. The organizers also remind visitors to wear appropriate footwear, as the route is in a natural setting and may include some uneven sections.

Today, the Living Nativity Scene of La Pobla de Montornès is much more than a Christmas performance: it is a symbol of local identity and one of the most beloved cultural activities in the area. Its continuity, the quality of the scenes, and the stunning setting have made it a popular attraction every year, drawing visitors from all over the Camp de Tarragona region and beyond.