Do you know where the biggest Bethlehem in Spain is? It is located in the small Pacense municipality of Jerez de los Caballeros. It is a monumental Biblical work that is mounted on 270 square meters and houses from small figures of two centimeters, to others of larger size (21 cem.).
It can be visited in the underground parking of the Plaza de la Alcazaba. One of the peculiarities that distinguish this Bethlehem (in addition to its size) is the fact that the different elements that compose it are built by hand. Part of the figures have been molded by neighbors, and others have been hand-painted, the volunteers in charge of setting up this Bethlehem, have dedicated an entire month, surely the hours spent are countless, but the result is worth it.
Y In addition to being a craftsman, this Bethlehem is supportive, because although the entrance is free, a piggy bank of donations has been arranged, the content of which will be used on the one hand to buy gifts from Reyes to the girls of the local boarding school, and on the other to that the family of a girl who suffers a rare disease, can adapt the house to the needs of the child.
A Bethlehem with rivers that seem real, and the staging of different activities that could have been developed in the time that is recreated. We find the 'Annunciation to Mary', the 'Mystery of the Birth', the 'flight to Egypt' ... and the rest of the scenes that we relate to Bethlehem, except for the 'slaughter of the innocents', too cruel to be exhibited. Of course, Herod's palace is also present.
6000 figures can not be seen in a single visit, even if Jerez de los Caballeros catches you nearby, or you are on vacation somewhere nearby, surely it is worth moving to contemplate.
When these dates arrive at home we love to travel Nativity scenes, it is an activity that none of us get tired of. I believe that all families with children should attend (at least) one of these exhibitions because it is a form of entertainment, a reason for family reunion, and an occasion to learn.
