The Giant Crib in Vila Real de Santo António, which opens its doors on the 1st of December, has, this year, a new record of pieces: 5700.
In the year in which it completes its 20th edition, the Giant Nativity scene reaches the threshold of 240 square meters, occupying the entire exhibition area of the António Aleixo Cultural Centre, with thousands of figures, many made from scratch by their authors and others that can reach the several hundred euros.
To bring this initiative to life took more than 40 days and 2500 hours of work, although preparations already started several months ago.
As usual, the list of materials used in its construction is extensive and includes more than 20 tons of sand, 4 tons of stone dust, 3000 kg of cork and hundreds of accessories.
The almost 100 animated and motorized pieces, the lakes and the lighting constitute «the secret» of the event and are «some of the most attractive points», says the Chamber of VRSA.
«All of this is based on a complex support base where the several kilometers of cables are installed that allow this work of art to come to life and guarantee, for example, the circulation of water, the lighting of the houses and the scenic effects», he adds.
In 2022, the structure will again have elements evocative of the region, namely Praça Marquês de Pombal, the old huts on the beach of Monte Gordo, the salt pans, the traditional Algarvian waterwheels, as well as other local monuments.
These details add to the reconstitution of many Christian and pagan episodes associated with the Christmas season – visible in the crib – factors that distinguish it from all others in the country and are one of the reasons for its success.
The Giant Crib attracts visitors of all ages and from all parts of the country, and is also sought after by thousands of foreign visitors, particularly Spaniards, given its popularity in neighboring Andalusia.
«The ecological aspect was also not forgotten, as most of the materials are natural or have been reused, with emphasis on cork and moss. On the other hand, LED lighting systems were implemented and the water used in ornamental lakes is reused», guarantees the municipality.
The Giant Nativity Scene by VRSA, which will be available for visits until January 8, 2023, is signed by Augusto Rosa, Teresa Marques, Joaquim Soares and António Bartolomeu, employees of the municipality of Vila Real de Santo António.
The space can be visited every day, from 10:00 am to 13:00 pm and from 14:30 pm to 19:00 pm (see exceptions). Entry costs 1 euro (50 cents for children under 10).
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