Living Nativity Scene in Buitrago del Lozoya

Since 1988, the Living Nativity Scene of Buitrago del Lozoya has become a tradition during the Christmas season. Inhabitants and visitors are amazed by this human work of art, in which the birth of Jesus is relived.

What is the Living Nativity Scene of Buitrago de Lozoya like?

The Living Nativity Scene of Buitrago del Lozoya has become a tradition that began as a project of the Adult Education Classroom in 1988, with only 11 scenes. But, as is to be expected, this event has grown to such an extent that its current route is 1,300 metres long and consists of 41 scenes, with the participation of more than 200 actors.

It is tradition that this route begins in the Plaza del Belén Viviente and the scenes are distributed throughout the old part of the town, which includes the church and the walls. In each scene you will be able to see the trades and tasks of the period.

Of course, the scene of the birth of Jesus is not to be missed, with an outstanding characterisation, in which they try to remain faithful to reality.

Let yourself be surprised by a Living Nativity Scene in which children and adults strive to give a great performance, tolerating even difficult weather conditions, such as the low temperatures typical of the time, but their professionalism and love for the representation gives them the strength to resist and give the best of themselves on stage.

Origin of the Buitrago del Lozoya Living Nativity Scene

The first Living Nativity Scene in Buitrago del Lozoya was celebrated in 1988, as a project of the Adult Education Classroom, organised by the teacher Angelines Paíno and her husband, Eusebio García, with the help of some neighbours and the support of the Town Hall.

On that occasion, 4000 people attended, who admiringly contemplated 11 scenes of the Living Nativity Scene. It was a great success for a first edition. In 1991 the non-profit Cultural Association Belén Viviente de Buitrago del Lozoya was founded, an entity that has been in charge of organising this event ever since.

Recommendations for visitors

• Some sections of the route are not designed for people with reduced mobility.
• Pets are not allowed on the route, only properly accredited guide dogs.

What else is there to see in Buitrago del Lozoya?

When you visit the Living Nativity Scene in Buitrago del Lozoya, you will be able to appreciate a very picturesque municipality, so we invite you to take a little time to get to know some of the special places that this town has to offer.

• The Clock Tower. This is perhaps one of the most emblematic buildings in Buitrago del Lozoya. It is a bastion that guards the main entrance to the town.
• Church of Santa María del Castillo. A fine example of 14th-century architecture.
• Picasso Museum. It is located in one of the rooms of the town's Town Hall, and houses a collection of works by Picasso.
• Buitrago Riding Centre. Enjoy a guided horse-riding route, and you can also take a short course in riding and dressage.

Gastronomy in Buitrago del Lozoya

When visiting Buitrago del Lozoya, it is almost obligatory that you delight your palate with some of its typical dishes, which are made with natural ingredients of excellent quality.

• Chuletón de la Sierra. A dish prepared with exquisite, fresh local beef.
• Judiones. It is made with chorizo sausage, black pudding and vegetables harvested in the area.
• Roast suckling pig and game meats. Tender meats, with flashes of flavour.
• Mushroom scrambled eggs or cheese boards.