These photographs were taken at the fiftieth international santon exhibition in Arles in 2007. They show that historic edition, separately from the programme announced for 2026–2027.
2026–2027 exhibition: Sainte-Anne chapel
The City of Arles announces the 69th edition from 14 November 2026 to 10 January 2027 in Sainte-Anne chapel, Place de la République. Published slots run from 10:00 to 18:00; none are listed for 25 December or 1 January. Naples is the featured city. Check the official programme before visiting.
Checked on 4 November 2026. The photographs below date from 2007.
The fiftieth exhibition in 2007
In 2007, the international santon exhibition celebrated its fiftieth edition. Nativity scenes occupied three venues in Arles’s old town: Saint-Trophime cloister, Sainte-Anne chapel and the Trinitaires church.
The space in the Trinitaires church accommodated six large displays: Provençal, Polish in woven straw, Louisiana, Indian, African and polar nativity scenes.
Provençal santons and traditions from around the world
The organising association brought together nativity scenes from different countries. Artistic creation, materials and local traditions were central to the exhibition. The feature on nativity scenes from around the world presents further examples.
GPS coordinates for Arles: 43°40′35″ N, 4°37′35″ E.
Christmas 2007 · photographs by Vincent Flachaire