Greccio:
First Manger Scene by Saint Francis

Greccio : First Manger Scene by Saint Francis

Step into the sacred heart of Greccio, one of Italy’s most spiritually significant towns. This walking tour offers a unique blend of faith, history, and beauty — from the birthplace of Saint Francis’ first nativity scene to the serene landscapes that inspired his devotion. Whether you’re on pilgrimage or exploring the stories that shaped this historic town, this tour will leave you inspired.

Tour Highlights

Visit the Sanctuary of Greccio, where Saint Francis created the first living nativity scene, bringing the story of Christ’s birth to life in a humble cave.
Explore the chapel and the historic site that inspired one of Christianity’s most beloved traditions.
Learn about the life of Saint Francis, his devotion to simplicity and humility, and how Greccio became a focal point for pilgrims seeking spiritual reflection.
Stroll through the medieval streets of Greccio, soaking in its timeless charm, sacred heritage, and tranquil surroundings.
Pause at viewpoints overlooking the lush Rieti valley, offering a serene backdrop that echoes the simplicity and peace Saint Francis cherished.
Discover small chapels and shrines dedicated to local devotion and centuries of Christian faith.
Conclude your tour with a moment of prayer and reflection at the sanctuary, leaving with a deeper understanding of Saint Francis’ legacy and the enduring power of the nativity tradition.

More Information

Duration : 2 Hours

Tour Inclusions: Experienced tour guide, Entrance to the Sanctuary of Greccio, Small group experience

Tour Exclusions: Personal expenses, hotel pickup, Food and drinks, Transportation to/from Greccio, optional donations, Entrance Fees

Distance: Approximately 1.5 km

Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

Meeting Point: Please arrive 10 minutes early in front of the main entrance of the Sanctuary of Greccio (Via Santa Maria, Greccio). Your guide will meet you there.

Full Description

Greccio: First Manger Scene by Saint Francis

Step into the sacred heart of Greccio on this immersive walking tour, where history, faith, and tradition converge. Your journey begins at the Sanctuary of Greccio, where Saint Francis created the first living Nativity scene in 1223, bringing the story of Christ’s birth to life for all to witness. Here, you’ll learn about his life, devotion, and enduring legacy that continues to inspire pilgrims today.

Next, visit the site of the First Manger Scene, a symbolic and historic location that celebrates the birth of Jesus. Discover how Saint Francis’ simple yet profound recreation of the Nativity continues to inspire Christian devotion and festive traditions around the world.

Continue your exploration with a stroll through the medieval streets of Greccio, where each corner reflects centuries of spiritual history and charm. Admire the timeless beauty of the town, with its stone buildings, quaint squares, and sacred heritage. Pause at scenic viewpoints offering panoramic views of the surrounding Rieti Valley — perfect for reflection on the spiritual and historical significance of Greccio.

Along the way, hear stories of miracles, devotion, and local traditions tied to the legacy of Saint Francis and the Nativity celebration. Appreciate the enduring power of faith and community that has shaped Greccio over the centuries.

Your tour concludes back at the Sanctuary of Greccio, providing a quiet moment for prayer, reflection, and gratitude. Leave with a deeper understanding of Greccio’s sacred history, its connection to Saint Francis, and the timeless Christian traditions that continue to resonate through its streets and holy sites.

Religious Importance

Greccio: First Manger Scene by Saint Francis

Nestled in the heart of the Rieti Valley in central Italy, Greccio is a town steeped in Christian history and Franciscan tradition. Pilgrims and visitors are drawn not only by its picturesque medieval streets but also by its profound spiritual significance. Among the most important sites to visit are the Sanctuary of Greccio, where Saint Francis created the first living Nativity scene; the First Manger Scene site, marking the origin of the tradition that inspired Nativity displays worldwide; and the Church of Saints Francis and Anthony, overlooking the valley and preserving centuries of Franciscan devotion. Along the scenic trails around Greccio, visitors can reflect on the spiritual legacy of Saint Francis and the enduring influence of his faith.

The First Manger Scene of Greccio (1223)

The most celebrated event in Greccio’s history is the creation of the first living Nativity scene by Saint Francis in 1223. Seeking to make the birth of Christ tangible and accessible, Saint Francis recreated the Nativity in a cave using a real manger, ox, and donkey. Witnesses were deeply moved, experiencing the simplicity and holiness of the Christmas story in a vivid and personal way. This humble yet powerful act gave rise to the worldwide tradition of Nativity scenes, celebrated each year in countless homes, churches, and public spaces. Pilgrims still visit the site to commemorate this event, reflecting on its enduring message of humility, devotion, and faith.

Saint Francis of Assisi

Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan Order, is one of the most venerated saints in Christian history. Known for his love of poverty, humility, and nature, he brought the Gospel to life through action and example. In Greccio, his vision of the first Nativity scene demonstrated his deep connection to Christ’s life and his desire to make faith tangible for all. The Sanctuary and surrounding sites allow pilgrims to trace his footsteps, exploring the places where his devotion inspired generations.

Pilgrimage and Franciscan Tradition

Greccio lies along historic Franciscan pilgrimage routes, attracting travelers seeking spiritual enrichment, reflection, and connection to the life of Saint Francis. For centuries, pilgrims have walked the trails leading to the Sanctuary, reflecting on the values of simplicity, compassion, and devotion exemplified by Saint Francis. Today, modern pilgrims and visitors can experience the same sense of peace and spiritual renewal, finding in Greccio a living testament to Franciscan faith and Christian heritage.

Whether visiting the Sanctuary, walking the historic paths, or reflecting at the First Manger Scene, Greccio offers a profound journey through history, devotion, and the timeless legacy of Saint Francis.

Tips & Practical Notes

Dress Code: Dress with an appropriate dress code for religious sites
Walking & Terrain: The tour involves walking approximately 1.2–1.5 km over cobblestone streets, some gentle slopes, and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Weather & Clothing: Bolsena’s weather can vary—dress in layers and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially in warmer months.
Respectful Conduct: Many stops include sacred sites like the Basilica, catacombs, and chapels. Please maintain respectful silence and follow the guide’s instructions.
Photography: Photos are welcome except where restricted inside sacred areas. Please respect local customs and signage.
Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, please inform us before booking so we can assist or recommend alternatives.
Language: The tour is conducted in the selected at the reservation stage. Private or multilingual guide options are available upon request.
Health & Safety: Please follow any current health protocols. Inform your guide of allergies or medical needs.
Local Etiquette: Bolsena is a living community with religious traditions—please be courteous to locals and worshippers.
Kids: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
Minimum Participants: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon.
Weather Conditions: Our tours operate in all weather conditions; however, in the event of adverse or unsafe weather, the tour may be cancelled, rescheduled, or modified for safety reasons. In such cases, suitable alternative arrangements or remedies will be considered depending on the circumstances.
Personal Items: Carry light; a small bag or backpack for water, camera, and essentials is recommended.

Cancellation Policy

Full Refund: The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund
Time Zone: Local time is applied in the event of cancellation.
Changes: Any changes to be made before 24 hours to the departure
No Refund: Any changes or cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time will not be eligible for a refund.
Group Size: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon. A full refund will be provided if the tour is cancelled due to the minimum number of participants.
Tour Guide Availability & Language Limitations: We specialize in tours to uncommon and unique religious destinations that are often unavailable on standard tours. Due to limited local guide availability, the requested language may not always be available. In such cases, we will offer alternative options before rescheduling or cancelling the tour. If no alternatives are feasible, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled, with a full refund provided.
Pricing Considerations: We strive to offer competitive pricing, but in some cases, limited supplier availability may affect costs.
Our Mission: As a Catholic tour operator, our primary goal is to provide a meaningful spiritual experience. We focus on destinations that are rarely included in standard tours, ensuring your journey is both unique and spiritually enriching.

Visit Greccio

Plan Your Visit to Greccio

Discover the easiest ways to reach, stay, and enjoy Greccio — a charming medieval town rich in Franciscan heritage, faith, and Italian culture. Travel times are approximate and may vary with schedules and traffic.

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Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.

Airport Meet & Assist Services

For a smooth travel experience, take advantage of Meet & Assist services available for arrivals and departures at major airports, including Rome Fiumicino, Rome Ciampino, and Florence. A dedicated assistant will greet you, help with luggage, check-in, and security, ensuring a stress-free start or end to your journey.

Please note: this service is provided only within the airport. Airport Meet & Assist is especially useful for first-time visitors to Italy or anyone seeking a smooth start or end to their trip.

By Air

Rome Fiumicino (FCO) – ~140 km | Rome Ciampino (CIA) – ~130 km
Approx. 2 hours by car or taxi.
From either airport, rent a car or take a train via Rieti or Poggio Mirteto to Greccio.

Find the Best Flights – Book your flights with Expedia

By Train

Nearest Station: Rieti or Poggio Mirteto, with onward local transport to Greccio
From Rome Termini: ~2–2.5 hours (with transfer at Poggio Mirteto)
From Poggio Mirteto: ~30–40 minutes by taxi or local bus

Find the Best Trains – Book your Trains with Omio

By Car

Drive along the scenic SS4 Via Salaria or SS79 Ternana, connecting Rome and Rieti.
From Rome: ~140 km (~2 hours) | From Rieti: ~25 km (~30–40 minutes)
Free and paid parking available near the Sanctuary of Greccio.

Find the Best Rent a Car – Rent your car with Centauto

By Bus

Regional buses connect Greccio with Rieti and nearby towns.
Timetables vary — check before travelling.

Find the Best Buses – Book your Buses with Omio

By Taxi / Private Transfer

Enjoy a direct, comfortable trip from airports or nearby cities.
Ideal for small groups or travellers with luggage.

Private Transfers – Book your private transfer with Welcome Pickups

On Foot / Locally

Greccio is a small, walkable town. All main attractions — the Sanctuary, First Manger Scene site, Church of Saints Francis and Anthony, and medieval streets — are easily reached on foot.

Where to Stay in Greccio

Find the perfect accommodation within walking distance of the Sanctuary and historic center. Choose from boutique hotels, guesthouses, or family-run B&Bs.

Hotels & B&Bs| Unique Local Stays

Find the Best Hotels – Book your Hotels with Expedia or Agoda

Experiences & Activities

Make your visit unforgettable — explore nearby Franciscan sites, cultural treasures, or extend your journey through Lazio and Umbria.

Book Tours & Activities

Find the Best Tours & Activities

Find tours & day trips on GetYourGuide
Explore cultural & religious tours on Viator

Travel Essentials

Be prepared and comfortable for your walk through Greccio’s historic streets and sacred sites.

Find the Best Travel Essentials

Find your travel accessories on Amazon
Find your Travel Insurance

Religious & Devotional Items

If you cannot visit Greccio in person, you can still bring a piece of its faith and history home. Explore authentic Catholic devotional items inspired by Saint Francis and the first Nativity scene.

Find the Best Religious & Devotional Items

Find your Religious & Devotional Items on Amazon

Note:

All times, prices, and details are approximate and may vary depending on schedules, seasons, or provider updates. Always check current travel information before booking.

Travel Tip

Combine train + local taxi or rental car for the smoothest arrival from Rome — the perfect blend of comfort and flexibility.

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Personalized Tour Requests

Discover the places that matter most to you, even if you’re staying only a short time.
We create fully personalised pilgrimage routes and custom tours designed around your faith, interests and schedule. Whether you want to visit a sacred shrine, a historic basilica, a monastery on a hilltop, or a lesser-known religious site that few travellers reach, we’ll make it possible.

To help you save time, we can arrange private pickup from the airports, ports, Rail Stations or directly from your accommodation. Our team ensures you have direct, stress-free access to the religious destinations you may not have another chance to visit again.

Every itinerary is crafted with care: Private transfers to and from holy sites, Flexible schedules for prayer, reflection, and guided visits, Local experts to share history, spirituality, and traditions, Tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, families, or parish groups

If there’s a special tour or pilgrimage tied to a destination close to your heart, let us know — we’ll create a meaningful journey crafted just for you. Contact us to get a quotation for your personalised tour request.

Work With Us as a Tour Guide in Greccio

We’re looking for passionate, licensed tour guides to help share the rich Franciscan heritage, history, and spiritual beauty of Greccio. Join us in guiding visitors through the Sanctuary of Greccio, the site of the First Nativity Scene by Saint Francis, and other sacred landmarks of this remarkable town.

If you enjoy bringing history, faith, and culture to life for travelers and pilgrims, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact us to become part of our tour guide team and inspire visitors with the story of Saint Francis and the First Manger Scene.

Partner with Us

We’re always looking to collaborate with travel agencies, pilgrimage organizers, and Catholic organizations to bring faith-based tours to more pilgrims. Partner with us to offer authentic Catholic pilgrimage experiences, expand your offerings, and deliver unforgettable journeys to sacred sites.

Greccio:First Manger Scene by Saint Francis