The nativity figures were carved by local artists Tinin Mantegazza, Maurizio Bertoni, and Mino Savadori starting in 1986.
The display is entirely floating, with the statues secured to the decks of historic boats like the 'bragozzo' and 'trabaccolo'.
The characters do not follow standard biblical iconography, instead portraying the diverse cast of a historic Adriatic fishing town.
The canal harbor where the museum is located was designed in 1502 by Leonardo da Vinci at the request of Cesare Borgia.
In 2013, the Presepe della Marineria was officially recognized as a 'Heritage of Italy' by the Ministry of Tourism.
The statues are carved from wood and finished with canvas treated with wax to withstand the maritime environment.
The scene is dismantled annually after the Epiphany to allow the boats to undergo routine maintenance.
New characters are added to the scene periodically, expanding the narrative of the harbor community.
The lighting system is calibrated to reflect off the dark canal water, creating a mirror effect that doubles the visual impact.
The 'Cesenatico' canal harbor is one of the few places in Italy where traditional sail-rigged fishing boats are preserved in active, navigable condition.
The Presepe della Marineria is a unique outdoor nativity scene hosted on board historic seafaring vessels moored in the canal harbor of Cesenatico, Italy. Designed by Tinin Mantegazza, the exhibition features life-sized wooden statues carved with expressive faces and period clothing. The figurines represent traditional local figures, including fishermen, carpenters, and market vendors, rather than conventional nativity characters. The display is mounted on authentic trabaccoli, bragozzi, and other traditional Adriatic boats from the Maritime Museum fleet. Lighting design plays a crucial role in the display, utilizing carefully positioned spotlights to create a dramatic, atmospheric effect on the water after sunset. The installation is a contemporary cultural heritage project that synthesizes maritime history with Italian Christmas traditions. The vessels themselves remain part of the museum's permanent floating fleet throughout the year. The exhibition is organized by the Maritime Museum of Cesenatico and occupies the historic canal port designed by Leonardo da Vinci.
The central bridge overlooking the canal, providing a panoramic view of the lit boats reflecting in the water.
Visit during the evening hours to fully appreciate the specialized lighting effects on the water.
Walk both banks of the canal to view the various boats from different perspectives.
Combine your visit with a trip to the indoor section of the Maritime Museum for context on the vessel types.
Do not attempt to board the historic vessels; they are preserved artifacts and restricted to staff and authorized personnel.
The exhibition is seasonal, running exclusively from early December through mid-January (Epiphany).
