Nativity Scenes in Madrid

One of Spain’s most cherished Christmas traditions is setting up nativity scenes, or belenes, in homes, churches, and public and private institutions. During the festive season, the city fills up with belenes of all shapes and sizes that you can visit for free.

Must-See Nativity Scenes

• The City Hall’s Nativity Scene, handcrafted by José Luis Mayo Lebrija and displayed at CentroCentro in Cibeles Palace features scenes from the Nativity, including more familiar and lesser-known moments.
• The Neapolitan nativity scene at Plaza Mayor.
• The Belén del Príncipe at the Royal Palace is a Neapolitan nativity scene dating back to King Charles III, who commissioned it for his son Charles IV. It comprises over 200 figures from Naples, Genoa, and Spain, all of them made during the last 300 years.
• At the History Museum, you’ll find a stunning 18th-century Neapolitan nativity scene, one of the museum's finest treasures. Its 50 articulated figures are set against an elaborate oriental backdrop, evoking the baroque courtly culture.
• The Museum of San Isidro's belén castizo showcases 19th-century figures celebrating Madrid’s local traditions.

Other belenes around the city:

• The nativity scene at the Government Department of Public Works and Equipment, at number 45, Calle de Alcalá.
• In Puerta del Sol, the courtyard of the Madrid Regional Government headquarters hosts a traditional nativity scene.
• Some of the city’s monasteries haver their own belenes, including Monastery of La Encarnación, Monastery of Las Descalzas Reales, Royal Convent of Santa Isabel.
• Casa de México
• Museum of the Americas (dates to be confirmed)
• National Museum of Decorative Arts
• El Corte Inglés, Spain’s beloved department store, also creates a number of displays: Plaza de Callao (El Corte Inglés Callao), Plaza de Felipe II (El Corte Inglés Goya), Plaza de Serrano (El Corte Inglés Serrano 47) Outdoor Parking Area (El Corte Inglés Paseo de la Castellana)