There is no "Nativity scene" in the gospels or elsewhere in the bible. We can clearly notice, however, that the 4 gospels were written for different audiences and there is only one (Luke) who is really interested in depicting what happend at the beginning of Jesus' life. read more
The nativity scene created by Francis is described by Saint Bonaventure in his Life of Saint Francis of Assisi written around 1260. Staged in a cave near Greccio, Saint Francis' nativity scene was a living one with humans and animals cast in the Biblical roles. Pope Honorius III gave his blessing to the exhibit. read more
The term "nativity scene" is commonly used for depictions of Jesus Christ's birth, in paintings, sculpture, and movies. The word comes from the Latin term nativus, which means "born." The Bible mentions the nativity of several prominent characters, but today the term is used primarily in connection with the birth of Jesus Christ. read more