Find accommodation & make a request

Crib museum "Maranatha"

Whereas the Christmas tree became a fix element during Christmas time only in the 19th century, the roots of Christmas cribs date back to early Christianity. The Crib Museum Maranatha in Luttach displays wonderful cribs for visitors during the whole year and gives a good insight into traditional woodcarving art in Ahrntal valley.

The museum’s name stems from an Aramaic exclamation: "Maranatha" means "Our Lord comes". Among other things, it is pronounced as a Communion verse during the pre-Christmas period.

Atmospheric world of cribs

When seeing the impressively assembled cribs, Christmas anticipation is growing. Miniature cribs, walk-in cribs with life-size figures, alpine or oriental cribs, 300 years old cribs or modern cribs – the museum shows the world of cribs in its multi-faceted variety. Realised with much love for details, the portrayal of the birth of Jesus is a highlight for kids and adults at the same time.

The art of woodcarving

Woodcarving has a very long tradition in Tauferer Ahrntal. Visiting the artist’s studio, you can see what can be created of wood with a combination of artistic creativity, skilled craftsmanship and the right tools. “Krampus” masks are produced as well. In another room, visitors are allowed to see an impressive collection of frightening devil masks and witch masks that are both carved and painted for the traditional Krampus parades before Christmas.

More info & opening hours:

Maranatha - Museum of Nativity & Folk Art
Weißenbachstraße 17, I-39030 Luttach/Ahrntal
Phone: +39 0474 671682
E-mail: info@krippenmuseum.com
Web: krippenmuseum.com
open all year

Current holiday offers

Images

Museum of cribs "Maranatha"
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"

The winter crib, designed by Josef Leitner and Irma Hofer.

© Krippenmuseum Maranatha
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"

In 2000 the Maranatha, the most imaginative nativity-scene-exhibition in the world, was opened in Luttach.

© Krippenmuseum Maranatha
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"

The artist's studio is used for various activities. Interested spectators can watch the artist while he works. Paintings reliefs and figures are restored, assignments are designed and created and it is also used as an exhibition room.

© Krippenmuseum Maranatha
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"

Since its opening constant efforts have been made to keep the museum attractive and authentic and it has been extended to become a special source of Christian belief, strength and hope.

© Krippenmuseum Maranatha
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"

Already the reception room is something special: The entire room is a replica of a Tyrolean barn, built of old wood.

© Krippenmuseum Maranatha
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"
Museum of cribs "Maranatha"

The guided tour through the museum is lead by the visionary Paul Gartner, assisted by the artistic supporter, the musician, composer, text writer and guide Hubert Leimegger.

© Krippenmuseum Maranatha

Museums

Selected accommodations in Ahrntal

Service