Pope unveils nativity scene at the Vatican.
- 12 years ago
STORY: One of the most anticipated nativity scenes in the world was revealed on Saturday (December 24) at St Peter's Square in Vatican City.
The Vatican's annual nativity scene is considered to be a hallmark of Christmas celebrations and this year's large-than-life figures did not disappoint.
A few hundred Catholic followers gathered in St Peter's Square which featured dimly-lit and delicately carved statues inside a cave.
Pope Benedict XVI briefly appeared at his window and lit a candle to celebrate the opening of the Christmas ceremonies with a traditional sign of peace.
Later, the 84-year-old pontiff will celebrate an evening Mass, and on Christmas day he will deliver his "Urbi et Orbi" ("to the city and to the world") speech.
The Vatican's annual nativity scene is considered to be a hallmark of Christmas celebrations and this year's large-than-life figures did not disappoint.
A few hundred Catholic followers gathered in St Peter's Square which featured dimly-lit and delicately carved statues inside a cave.
Pope Benedict XVI briefly appeared at his window and lit a candle to celebrate the opening of the Christmas ceremonies with a traditional sign of peace.
Later, the 84-year-old pontiff will celebrate an evening Mass, and on Christmas day he will deliver his "Urbi et Orbi" ("to the city and to the world") speech.