Christmas cribs
Most of all South Tyrolean cribs are handmade and bequeath from one generation to the other. Sometimes they are such big, that half of the snuggery is completed. Other cribs are pretty small and the kids can recreate the nativity story in a not always original way.
All together they have really rural South Tyrolean scenery: ox and donkey are standing behind Mary, Joseph and Jesus in the cot which is connected at the farmer’s house. The windows are decorated with red-white plaid curtains and the farmers are dressed with knickerbockers and blue aprons and the farmer’s wife have a coloured bandana and typical aprons, too.
In bigger cribs are shown real landscapes: mini castles and mountains, small cities and farmer’s houses, artisans and farmers, sheep, cows and donkey and – needless to say – Josef and Mary as farmers with the little Christ Child. The cribs from South Tyrol are pieces of art; thousands of working hours are behind them.
Who wants to see the big variety of South Tyrolean cribs should visit the crib museum "Maranatha" in Luttach in Tauferer Ahrntal.
Images
HAPE Sculptures in Gröden produce traditional figures, cribs, religious motives, gift ideas and designer pieces.
© HAPE Sculptures
The winter crib, designed by Josef Leitner and Irma Hofer.
© Krippenmuseum Maranatha
In 2000 the Maranatha, the most imaginative nativity-scene-exhibition in the world, was opened in Luttach.
© Krippenmuseum 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
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
Already the reception room is something special: The entire room is a replica of a Tyrolean barn, built of old wood.
© Krippenmuseum 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
Not only in Val Gardena there are great sculptors! Even in Lajen/ Laion there is an ancient tradition of wood carving.
© TV Lajen