A nativity scene among the olive trees in western Liguria. A “designer” nativity scene that brings joy at Christmas time and the New Year, right through to the Epiphany. A nativity scene that is truly…DOP. Earning this honour because its creator, Marco Rambaldi is the son of our consortium member Bruno “Brunello” Rambaldi. We meet him among his trees and those of his neighbours, in Pacialla, a historic part of Porto Maurizio. Highlands, views and, above, glimpses of the sky between the leaves. These are the only “trees” here, all the others are simply plants. These secular olive trees, standing proud and in excellent health, ready to give their fruit, DOP Riviera Ligure extra-virgin olive oil. With special indication “Riviera dei Fiori”, obviously. The house, at the end of the estate holds all the magic of the nativity scene every year, featuring all the traditional, well-known figures from shepherds to craftsmen. It is a miracle of movement that goes beyond the classic alternation of day and night, thanks to outstanding special effects: rain, lightning, snow and even a smoking volcano. Against a background of appropriate music, your eyes are drawn to each corner, to every detail of this professionally crafted model. It takes you back to your childhood in a place suitable for the whole family. You cannot help but wonder at the inventive imagination and creative patience that is so typical of Liguria, so native to this area rendered sacred by the passage of the olive farmers, knocking down the olives from the trees. An activity that is, not by chance, featured in the centre of the nativity scene. In a city like Imperia, which boasts an extraordinary Nativity Scene Museum, dedicated to the eighteenth-century Genoese style, all one with the oil families. Outside, the leaves on the olive trees are still as they seek the last rays of a sun that reddens a festive scene. Happy Christmas to everyone.
