Presentation "100 Years of the Christmas Crib"

History, Faith, Design | Moderation: Prof. Thomas Pumberger It took more than 165 years for the parish church of Altheim to fulfill the wish for a large Christmas nativity scene. Previously, there was a lack of funds or approval from the authorities. It was only the artistically inclined clergyman Alois Hauer (1886-1970) who succeeded in creating the 6 m² nativity scene in an unprecedented masterwork in 1925, which continues to delight visitors to St. Laurenz Church during the Christmas season. The first nativity figures were created by the academic sculptor Engelbert Streif (1885-1938), who hailed from Weilbach. Through the work of the Gallneukirchen restorer and sculptor Leopold Raffetseder (1927-2006), the collection of figures was generously expanded between 1993 and 2005. The 100th anniversary of the nativity scene, the 55th anniversary of its creator's death, and the 140th birthday of the creator of the oldest nativity figures provide an opportunity to rediscover the history, structure, and symbolism of this impressive work of art. Experience an exciting presentation that highlights not only the craftsmanship but also the spiritual depth and cultural significance of the nativity scene.