Large Nativity Scene Exhibition at the Schussenried Monastery

The State Palaces and Gardens of Baden-Württemberg, in cooperation with the Schmehle-Knöpfler family, are once again presenting impressive nativity scenes of all kinds. The traditional exhibition is complemented by masterpieces from the Nativity Scene Association of Friedrichshafen. The nativity scenes can be admired from Saturday, November 29, 2025, to Sunday, February 22, 2026, in the convent building of the Schussenried Monastery – a remarkable experience for young and old alike.

Two Nativity Exhibitions
The large nativity exhibition from the Schmehle-Knöpfler collection has a long tradition at the Schussenried Monastery. The exhibition is considered one of the largest private nativity collections and spans a range from small, naive nativity scenes to high-quality artworks. Guests of all ages can marvel at artistic nativity ensembles from different centuries and regions of the world. Highlights of the exhibition include a large Neapolitan nativity scene, a room-filling ensemble of a contemporary nativity scene depicting flight, as well as mechanically operated nativity scenes.

In parallel, the Nativity Scene Association of Friedrichshafen will once again showcase its "Masterful Nativity Craftsmanship" at the Schussenried Monastery this year. From Saturday, November 29, to Sunday, February 22, 2026, visitors can admire artistic nativity ensembles in the new convent building. These scenes depict the biblical story in alpine, oriental, and southern landscapes. The detailed exhibits have been lovingly handcrafted from natural materials such as stones, wood, roots, and bark pieces. The figures are created by well-known artists such as Angela Tripi from Palermo or by renowned manufacturers like Heide and Lepi from South Tyrol.