The most beautiful nativity scene in the Netherlands

The most beautiful nativity scene in the Netherlands is coming again

It has become a tradition. From 12 December to 11 January 2026, Museum Catharijneconvent will once again be setting up “The most beautiful nativity scene in the Netherlands”. More than 600 eighteenth-century nativity figures will be on display for no less than four weeks in St. Catherine’s Cathedral, next to the museum. The centuries-old figures are displayed in a spectacular setting, with the ultimate highlight being Joseph and Mary surrounded by angels under the Dom Tower in Utrecht. Once again this year, admission is free and open to everyone.

A complete city in miniature
It is not surprising that visitors return year after year for this magical spectacle. Each figure is a work of art in itself, skilfully painted, with terracotta heads and wooden legs and arms. The refined clothing is made of silk, wool, cotton and brocade, ivory and mother-of-pearl with beautiful embroidery. Put six hundred of them together and you won’t be able to take your eyes off them; it really is a complete city in miniature.

Naples meets Utrecht
The nativity scene in Utrecht originally comes from Naples, Italy. There, wealthy families in the eighteenth century collected the most beautiful nativity figures. There was fierce competition to see who had the largest, most beautiful and most expensive nativity scene. Only the best was good enough. The Utrecht nativity scene is set up entirely in the traditional Neapolitan style, combined with real Utrecht eye-catchers. For example, a giant choir of angels flies around the cathedral.

Setting up the stable
Every year, it takes a great deal of effort for the museum to return the hundreds of fragile figures and decorative pieces to the cathedral. This requires many skilled hands. The museum staff have been trained for this by nativity scene specialists from Naples. These enthusiastic Neapolitan experts have been devoting themselves heart and soul to their craft for generations: building, restoring and staging nativity scenes.

Practical information
The most beautiful nativity scene in the Netherlands can be visited for FREE from 12 December 2025 to 11 January 2026 in Museum Catharijneconvent.