Monaco’s Chemin des Crèches is back with new displays and an expanded route. This feature of the Christmas season in Monaco is both a celebration of global artistry and local traditions.
Running until 6th January 2025, the pathway up to the Rock of Monaco features an array of nativity scenes from across the globe. Monaco Life headed out on the trail to explore how this year’s edition is honouring creative skill and heritage while offering a new perspective on the historic streets of Le Rocher.
The route begins at the Rampe Major, where an interactive QR code-based game has been introduced at the Porte Neuve. Visitors are invited to answer a quiz, available in French, English, and Italian, which encourages observation of the crèches while testing knowledge of nativity traditions. From there, the path climbs towards the Place du Palais, where festive displays unfold across several key landmarks.
At the chalet near the Statue de la Mer and Malizia terrace, a luminous arrangement of blue and white nativity scenes sets the tone for the journey. The route continues around the space, extending to the large chalet under the pines on the Place du Palais, where this year’s centrepiece pays tribute to Africa and Madagascar. Around 15 crèches, crafted with native materials, reflect the creativity of artisans from some of the world’s most resource-limited regions.
Venturing deeper into the neighbourhood, Monaco Life uncovered yet more of this year’s highlights. At the Placette des Carmes, a chalet marks the centenary of the Comité National des Traditions Monégasques with a display of a 19th-century crèche by a Provençal santonnier. Nearby, the Chapelle de la Miséricorde is hosting a handcrafted Nativity scene celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Princess Grace Irish Library. The display, created in collaboration with FANB school students, blends traditional craftsmanship with the involvement of younger generations.
Further along, close to the Place de la Mairie, a striking nativity scene carved into the wheel of a 19th-century Savoyard wagon is tucked into the small shelter of the Sœurs Oblates de La Vierge Marie de Fatima. A family-owned nativity, preserved by a longstanding Monegasque family, is also on display in the pharmacy window at 15 Rue Comte Félix Gastaldi.
Education remains a central theme of this year’s Chemin des Crèches, with works from three local primary school classes featured as part of the Coin Créations des Écoliers.
To see more of the displays, click on the images below:
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All photos by Monaco Life