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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 (28 November to 4 January), 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 (5 December to 5 January) is a historic Neapolitan nativity scene dating back to King Charles III, who commissioned it for his son Charles IV. It comprises over 200 Neapolitan, Genoese and Spanish figures created over the last 300 years.
At the History Museum (1 December to 1 February), 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 (2 December to 18 January) 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 (22 November to 6 January)
In Puerta del Sol, the courtyard of the Madrid Regional Government headquarters hosts a traditional nativity scene (28 November to 6 January).
Several of the city’s monasteries also display their own belenes, including Monastery of La Encarnación (1 December to 7 January), Monastery of Las Descalzas Reales (16 December to 5 January), Royal Convent of Santa Isabel (dates not yet confirmed for 2025).
National Museum of Decorative Arts (11 December to 11 January).
El Corte Inglés, Spain’s beloved department store, also creates several displays across the city (until 6 January): Plaza de Callao, Plaza de Felipe II, No.47 Calle de Serrano, and the outdoor parking area of El Corte Inglés Paseo de la Castellana.