Maranatha Nativity Scene Museum

In Lutago in the Valle Aurina, a five-minute drive from Campo Tures, you'll find the Maranatha Nativity Scene Museum (Krippenmuseum Maranatha). The name comes from the Aramaic word "Maranatha", meaning "Our lord may come!". Nativity scenes have a long tradition in the valley, while Christmas trees and Advent wreaths only became popular in the 20th century. The museum houses traditional Tyrolean nativity scenes, elaborately crafted and some even room-sized.

A particular highlight is the 70 sqm walk-through nativity scene with life-sized wooden figures. Oriental and modern nativity scenes complement the exhibition. The entrance area itself is captivating: It resembles a Tyrolean barn and was constructed using the old wood from the 18th-century Holzlechnhof farm, dismantled in Predoi. A separate room is dedicated to wood carving.

Among the exhibits are artfully carved masks with witch or devil faces, still used today in the traditional Krampus run, as well as carved suns. The 1,300 sqm sculpture garden and the artist's studio of the talented San Giovanni sculptor Lukas Troi complete your visit.

The Maranatha Museum is open year-round. How to get there: The facility is located in the Via Rio Bianco road in Lutago, turning left off the Valle Aurina state road heading into the valley. Parking is available at the museum, and the bus stop is at the tourist information office. A spiral ramp inside the building makes all areas of the museum accessible barrier-free.