Since 2014, Avignon's municipal Christmas nativity scene has been displayed in the Célestins church, alongside a santon makers' market.
Beautiful nativity scenes can also be seen in Avignon's parish churches.
In early December, a large nativity scene used to fill the entrance hall of Avignon Town Hall. Such a broad, deep space offers a rare opportunity to create an elaborate setting.
An idealised, timeless Provence is represented in all its variety: rocky hills, scrubland, lavender fields and olive groves, streams and rivers in steep valleys crossed by a stone viaduct, and traditional villages of dry-stone houses.
The santons depict rural Provençal life in days gone by: a fruit and vegetable market, a shepherd and his flock, travelling musicians, games of boules and more.
The renowned Carbonel workshops created this exceptional nativity scene, with more than 600 figurines and accessories.
Photographs of the Christmas nativity scene at Avignon Town Hall
Further information on the City of Avignon website: www.mairie-avignon.fr
Marcel Carbonel santons website: www.santonsmarcelcarbonel.com