A short street in the heart of the Centro Storico that has been the centre of Naples's presepe — nativity scene — craftsmanship for over four centuries. The workshops on Via San Gregorio Armeno produce everything from traditional terracotta shepherd figures to satirical contemporary characters: politicians, footballers, and celebrities routinely appear alongside the Holy Family.
The street is open year-round but reaches its peak activity in October and November as families prepare for Christmas. Walking through it is free; buying a single figure is perfectly acceptable. The craftspeople can explain the traditions behind the figures — many come from families that have been working in this street for generations. The church of San Gregorio Armeno at the end of the street has a beautiful cloister with an orange-tree garden.