Nativity scenes rank among the loveliest - and the most tangible - aspects of the Christmas season. This is especially true of Bamberg, the Nativity Town. On a reflective stroll along the nativity trail, walkers will discover almost 400 nativity scenes spread across around 40 stations, including the Cathedral, small chapels, museums and public buildings all around Bamberg's Old Town.

Bamberg thus creates a link between quality Christmas traditions and living legacy. The many nativity scenes show how much love has been put into these "treasures", which tell the biblical stories surrounding Advent. Some of the scenes - particularly those in the churches and public places - therefore, vary: Mary's Annunciation alternates with the search for an inn, the Holy Night, the Adoration of the Magi, the representation of Jesus at the Temple as a boy of twelve or the marriage at Cana. The nativity scenes are on display throughout Advent, whilst some remain in place well into February.