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The Belén, nativity scene, is a tradition throughout Andalucia during the festive season, with villages and local areas in the towns bringing a taste of Bethlehem to Spain.
The word Belén has become shortened from Bethlehem over the years.
From the large displays in local churches and the live displays in the villages to smaller displays in the homes, people all over Spain celebrate the birth of the Christchild in one way or another.
In a large display, the whole village of Bethlehem is displayed in miniature with live plantings and people going about their daily work in their houses around the Stable scene.
In a small village in the hills not far from the Costa Tropical, Los Tablones celebrates the Belén with a 'live' display both before and after Christmas up until the night of the epiphany, the 'Three Kings' night.
All the villagers join in displaying and using the traditional skills and handicrafts handed down from generation to generation. A way of life fast dying out in modern day Spain along with the ancient knowledge.
This is an unmissable experience; a great priviledge to be able to visit.
The next Belén scene will take place in Los Tablones on 30th December from 11.30 am.
