"Il Natale nella Storia"

“CHRISTMAS IN HISTORY”
December 28th and 29th
Workshops for children organized by Coop. Polisviluppo as part of the “Live History” project.
"Christmas in History" is a fascinating journey through traditions, symbols, and stories that, over the centuries, have shaped the most celebrated holiday of the year. Through interactive workshops and engaging narratives, children will have the opportunity to discover how Christmas has deep roots in ancient rites, evolving over time into the celebrations we know today. It’s an opportunity to explore history with imagination, creativity, and hands-on activities.
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Sunday, December 28th
“THE ART OF THE NATIVITY SCENE”
A workshop dedicated to the nativity scene, one of the most beloved symbols of the Christmas tradition. Children will create a small nativity scene using natural materials, discovering how this representation originated in the Middle Ages and how it has transformed over time.
During the activity, the legend of Anastasia, the typical terracotta figurine holding a child wrapped in "spraine" (white bands symbolizing purity), will be shared. According to tradition, this figurine is placed in nativity scenes the day after Christmas as a wish for good fortune. A workshop that combines creativity, tradition, and discovery.
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Monday, December 29th
“THE HISTORY OF CHRISTMAS”
Christmas is a celebration with very ancient roots, originating long before the Christian tradition. Different peoples celebrated the winter solstice as a time of rebirth, giving rise to customs and symbols that over time have merged into the Christmas celebrations we know today. The workshop will take children on a brief journey through myths, legends, and traditions from different eras, showing how Christmas has changed and enriched over the centuries.
During the activity, children will be able to:
• Reproduce a Roman coin in clay depicting Janus Bifrons, symbolizing the transition between the old and new year;
• Mold a gingerbread man in clay, inspired by characters from Christmas tales.
An experience that combines history and creativity, stimulating curiosity and hands-on skills.
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The two “Christmas in History” events represent a unique opportunity to introduce youngsters to history through play, storytelling, and manual activities. Thanks to these activities, children can experience the magic of Christmas, discovering its evolution over time and rediscovering traditions, symbols, and legends that still make this holiday so special today. An educational and engaging experience designed to stimulate curiosity, creativity, and love for our cultural heritage.

The activities will take place at the Info Point of Taranto (Piazza Castello) at 10:30 AM.
Cost: € 6.00 per participant
Info/Reservations: Booking required Tel. 331 932 5289

The "Live History" project is carried out with financial support from the Regional Council of Puglia.
Web: www.polisviluppo.it/