The popularity of the Nativity scene, one of the most beloved and enduring symbols of the holiday season, originated in Italy. St. Francesco of Assisi asked a man named Giovanni Vellita from the village of Greccio to create a manger scene. St. Francesco performed mass in front of this early Nativity scene, which inspired awe and devotion in all who saw it. The creation of the figures became an entire genre of folk art. 

The presepio (crib or manger)  is the centre of Christmas for families. Guests kneel before it and musicians sing before it. The scene is often set out in the shape of a triangle. Christmas morning is celebrated with a church Mass. Churches usually compete to see who will have the most beautiful "presepio", which most often , goes to the Ara Coeli in Rome. Every year, in Xmas time, an exibition of "presepi"  from different countries in the world is held in Rome. 

In many towns and villages a "Living Nativity" is performed on Christmas Day.