A Hamiltons of London Guide - Costa Blanca Nativity Displays

The Mediterranean towns of the Costa Blanca get ready for Christmas with markets, trees, lights and elaborate Nativity displays known as Belén meaning Bethlehem. These installations are a traditional feature in Spain and represent the birth of Christ and combine art with. When you buy a home in the Costa Blanca with Hamiltons of London do take time during the festive season the explore the Belenes. They are fascinating, hand-crafted works of both and devotion which link the Christmas story with local landmarks.

The Belén Tradition in the Costa Blanca 

The first live Nativity scene was probably created in Italy by St Francis of Assisi with the concept soon spreading to other European countries. This has become a national art form in Spain with the annual tradition we see today of Belén everywhere private homes, churches and town squares across the Costa Blanca proudly displaying their Belenes from early December until the Epiphany in January. Some will be simple scenes just with the stable, some animals, Mary, Joseph and Jesus in his manger while others will feature villages, automated figures and running water. These more elaborate displays tell not only the story of the Nativity but local life in Spain today with traditional houses, fishermen, bakers and shepherds as well as the Holy Family. They cleverly blend local culture with the story of the Nativity with warmth and creativity that reflects the strong community ties within each town. 

Must See Belenes of the Costa Blanca

In the historic centre of Alicante there is a flourish of festive activity in December as they install their life-sized Belén. Each year a new display is crafted and the city has had a place in the Guinness World Records for towering figures of the Holy Family. If you buy a home in the Costa Blanca this is an exhibit that should be on your Christmas to do list. Close by you can also visit the Nativity Museum which takes you on a journey through the history and artistry of making the Belén. 

Lively Benidorm is not to be left out of the Festive celebrations with their primary Nativity Scene located appropriately in Plaza de la Navidad (Christmas Square) among markets, an ice rink and family entertainment. The Benidorm Belén has a modern approach recognising contemporary life in this lively community. 

The yearly Nativity display in Javea each year is particularly enchanting and displayed in the indoor market in the old town. It is crafted by dedicated volunteers and the attention to detail is extraordinary with tiny olive groves, rivers and market stalls bringing the biblical story to life. 

The Belén in the townhall square in Denia there is another display well worth a visit and is frequently accompanied by festive events and live music. Here the proud artisans who create the scene incorporate the maritime history of Denia.  For anyone buying a home in the Costa Blanca seeing the Belenes can give you an insight into the strong community spirit that exists in each town which is part of what makes life here so appealing. 

All coastal towns, cities and villages will have their own displays as well those inland from the coast among and the Belén in Jalon is created by residents and associations who collaborate to build it using local materials for authenticity.  In all the communities of the Costa Blanca you can enjoy a stroll to view the various displays, enjoy music and sometimes a live nativity performance from local children and animals.

Enjoy Faith, Art, Community and Christmas in the Costa Blanca

For those moving to the Costa Blanca these traditions are part of what makes this such a special place to live. The sense of community and collaboration exists throughout the year but is particularly evident at Christmas and during other annual festivities. At Hamiltons of London we know that you are not only buying a property in the Costa Blanca but, finding a new home and way of life and becoming involved in local cultural events will help pave the way.