The Magic of Christmas in Cesenatico

Cesenatico is one of the gems of Romagna, able to radiate energy and emotions all year round, no matter the season.

But it is during the Christmas period that its beauty reveals itself in all its splendor, thanks to the explosion of colors, sounds, and lights that fill the town.

The true protagonist of Christmas in Cesenatico is the historic center, with its canal harbor that hosts the Maritime Nativity.
The Maritime Nativity of Cesenatico: a unique masterpiece on the Leonardesco Canal Harbor.

Every year, during the Christmas season, the Leonardesco Canal Harbor of Cesenatico transforms into a magical open-air stage thanks to the famous Maritime Nativity, one of the most original and enchanting nativity scenes in Italy.

Its history began in 1986, from an idea by Guerrino Gardini and the artistic project of Tinin Mantegazza, with the statues created by Maurizio Bertoni and Mino Savadori. The first figures were the Holy Family and the Three Wise Men, followed by Saint James, the patron saint of the city. Over the years, the nativity scene has been enriched with new characters inspired by local maritime tradition and daily life: the fisherman, the piadina vendor, the accordion player, the puppeteer, up to the latest sculpture, a sailor on the trabaccolo.

Today, the nativity scene features over 50 life-size statues, all made with exceptional artisanal techniques: the faces, hands, and feet are carved from Swiss pine wood, while the clothing is shaped from canvas and hot wax over metal structures, using the colors of ancient sails.

What truly makes this nativity scene magical is the evening illumination: when darkness falls, the lights envelop the historic boats of the Maritime Museum, and the figures seem to come to life, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable spectacle.

The Maritime Nativity of Cesenatico is a tradition that is renewed every Christmas, with a new statue added each year, bringing joy and wonder to both children and adults.

For those wishing to experience the magic of Christmas in Cesenatico, staying at a hotel near the Canal Harbor means having this extraordinary spectacle just steps away, immersed in the warm and enchanting atmosphere of the holiday season.