In Rome, this year, the magic of Christmas has the scents of cedar and larch. The welcoming embrace of the Colonnato del Bernini is the backdrop for a wooden marvel created by 11 skillful artists and craftsmen, a Nativity in the typical style of the Alpi Carniche (Friuli Venezia-Giulia).

This year’s presepe in Saint Peter’s Square comes from Sutrio, a charming hamlet located at the feet of Monte Zoncolan, in Friuli, and will accompany Pope Francis’ Christmas prayers throughout the festivities. The small Carnia village, which is only a couple of hours away from the border with Austria, is known for its wood craftsmanship tradition. Once upon a time, there was a wood carver in every family.