Where to buy Neapolitan Christmas creches
The street of San Gregorio Armeno has, for centuries, been at the heart of a peculiarly Neapolitan tradition. Detailed models of religious scenes are created here for the decoration of people's homes. At Christmas time, shoppers from all over Italy descend to buy their presepi as they are called. They are on sale all year round, so it is possible to obtain examples at any time, thus avoiding the impenetrable crush at Christmas. Extraordinary craftmanships can be seen in the workshops here, not all of which is restricted to traditional subjects. You will find models of footballers, for example, as well as food and animals, and there are plenty of potential souvenirs in every shop.
Creches Amendola via San Gregorio Armeno 51 ph.081 5514899 In a street packed with traditional craftsmen, this workshop turns out a good variety of sizes and styles of Christmas creche, many of which are now powered by electricity
Fratelli Capuano via San Gregorio Armeno 28 ph.0815519651 This crowded workshop makes some of the largest Christmas creches around. The scenes are most elaborate, with several characters, as well as lights and working waterwheels
Ferrigno via San Gregorio Armeno 10 ph.0815523148 Giuseppe and Marco carry on a family tradition of making Christmas creches, religious scenes, statuettes of Pulcinella and more modern subjects.
Di Virgilio via San Gregorio armeno 18 ph. 0815491642 The innumerable ornamental figurines on display either come from the family's century-old workshop or are made by other talented local craftsmen. The pastori (shepherds) are remarkably well-made and the most expressive of the figurines. They can be bought with miniature , tiny items such as baskets filled with food, the best of which are made of wax
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