Crèches dans les églises du centre-ville d'Avignon

Originating in the 13th century, the nativity scene evokes the birth of Jesus with a donkey and an ox around a manger.
It has grown with the santons (little saints) which from the 19th century represent all of Provençal society: miller, shepherdess, tambourine player, wood carrier, fisherman, peasant, knife grinder, lou Ravi, the mistral wind… around Mary, Joseph and the Three Wise Men.

Nativity scenes are a true institution in Provence, particularly in Avignon. Rich in detail and characters, they are more than a simple representation of the Nativity and tell the story, culture and trades of yesteryear.

They can be seen in the city's churches from mid-December until Candlemas, February 2nd:
– Metropolitan Basilica of Notre-Dame des Doms – Avignon Cathedral
Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 17 a.m.

– Collegiate Church of Saint-Agricol
23, rue Saint-Agricol
Monday to Friday from 10am to 19pm, Saturday from 10am to 17pm, Sunday from 9:30am to 12pm.

– St. Peter's Basilica
Saint-Pierre square
Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 13 p.m. and 14:30 p.m. to 17 p.m.

– Collegiate Church of Saint-Didier
Place Saint-Didier
Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17 p.m.

– Church of Saint-Symphorien les Carmes
Carmes Square
Monday to Friday 8am-17pm, Sunday 9:30am-12pm.

These times are subject to change and may vary depending on the availability of surveillance staff.

You can also admire a magnificent 50m2 nativity scene, a true miniature fresco composed of more than 500 characters and a multitude of animals in the Celestines church until December 28 (every day from 10am to 19pm, until 20pm on Saturday, closed on December 25).
A magical and visually delightful moment to share with family or friends!