Tenerife Cabildo Nativity Scene Returns, Depicting Social Divide

The Cabildo de Tenerife's nativity scene is back, marking the start of Christmas on the island. As is tradition, it's located in the lobby of the Insular Palace. This year's display is the work of Jesús Gil García, a musician and nativity artist from Santa Cruz. He has transformed the humble stable where Mary gives birth into a representation of the divide between social classes. As Gil García himself states, "God belongs to everyone," a message reflected in the scene's opulent palace with three gold-domed roofs, representing the wealthy, contrasted with the simple Hebrew village on the other side.

The realistic Hebrew style of the scene transports visitors directly to the daily life of that ancient era. In the foreground, the birth of Jesus is depicted without unnecessary embellishments, featuring the traditional characters: the Child, the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, the Three Wise Men, and the animals – the mule and the ox.

Next to the stable, the scene is divided into two distinct areas. One side shows a poor, rustic, rural area, depicting a lack of resources. The other side is full of luxury and splendor. In the background, an imposing tower rises, recreating Herod's vaulted palace, which measures two square meters at its base and stands 1.70 meters high. A vibrant market brings the daily life of the time to light, and a monumental archway behind the nativity scene frames and highlights the main display. This contrast between luxury and poverty underscores the central message: God chose to be born among the disadvantaged, those who have little.

A notable feature of this nativity scene is its twenty figures, each 35 centimeters tall, created by José Luis Mayo Lebrija, a renowned sculptor and artisan from Madrid. His meticulous work and realism give each piece a unique character. As a special detail, Melchior carries a sterling silver censer, crafted in Rafael Rubio Valverde's workshops in Cordoba. Modern technology has also been incorporated, with some items designed and 3D printed, and all the decorative latticework made from laser-cut wood.

Gil García, who is also a civil servant, adds a personal touch by including a musician within the nativity scene. He has also hidden four cats, with one playing by a door – a fun detail for younger visitors to spot.

Gil García brings over 40 years of experience to this work. Since childhood, he has been passionate about preserving and sharing this Christmas tradition, even running workshops across the island. He has also created nativity scenes for many organizations and groups in the Canary Islands, including this one, which is his fifth for the Cabildo. The artist is thankful for the time he had to create it, starting in April, and for the help of his team: Juan C. Martín, Ismael Francisco, and Miguel Rocha.

The Cabildo de Tenerife's nativity scene is open for daily visits until January 6, 2026. Everyone, from Tenerife residents to visitors, is invited to experience this carefully crafted artwork that beautifully upholds the season's traditions. It's a place for coming together, wonder, and reflection, a cherished event that returns every year. It's truly worth a visit.