Christmas in Cieza

Cieza celebrates the route of the nativity scenes each Christmas

Christmas is a special time for the residents of Cieza,  not only for its religious importance but also because it is a traditional time for families to get together.El Pregón de Navidad (Christmas speech) marks the start of Christmas and is given by a well known person within Cieza or from outside, emphasizing the culture, way of life, traditions and Christian beliefs.  From this moment, the town is filled with Christmas spirit and the streets and squares of the old town are lit up and decorated for Christmas.

A cultural programme of events focusing around Christmas are planned for the end of year and Christmas period, including carol singing, religious music and choir singing by the choirs of Cieza: "Amigos de la música", "Ars Nova" and "Magna Fábula".

Public nativity scenes (belenes) are a typical tradition of Cieza and has lead to the tradition of the "Ruta de los belenes" (route of the nativity scenes) in the old quarter of the town, organized annually by the Concejalía de Turismo del Ayuntamiento (the town hall’s tourist department).
Miniature scenes are created and some are ideological representations of Bethlehem itself, whilst others include characterful references to Cieza today.  Several nativities, such as those organized by some of the Cofradias in their headquarters, are on a large scale, whilst private homes also participate in the route, creating their own private belenes for the public to admire.

There is also a Municipal nativity scene which is usually housed in the Museo de Sillaza.  This is usually organized by local artists and in latter years has been organized by the painter and sculptor Francisco Moreno and is probably the most admired crib due to its originality and the fact that it includes buildings from Cieza and aspects of its surrounding countryside.

The "Mercadillo Artesanal de Navidad" (Artisan Christmas market) is also a must and has typical Christmas artisan produce such as cakes, jewellery and accessories. Local produce and typical Christmas sweets can also be purchased in bakers and patisseries around the town.

More info about Cieza in the dedicated Cieza section, accessed via the map box at the bottom of every page