First Nativity scene ever created is in a major Roman basilica

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome houses the first Nativity scene ever created, sculpted by Arnolfo di Cambio in 1291. Commissioned by Pope Nicholas IV, the marble group was originally placed in the Oratory of the Nativity, later moved to the Sistine Chapel crypt by Domenico Fontana. The basilica, founded in the 4th century and rebuilt in the 5th, also holds the relic of the manger from Bethlehem, earning it the name Sancta Maria ad Praesepium. Pope Francis recently expressed his wish to be buried there, breaking with modern tradition. The Nativity scene, restored in 2005, is now displayed in temporary installations during Christmas.