In early December, the Pilgrimage Center of Our Lady of Nui Cui (Thong Nhat Commune, Dong Nai Province) became a festive highlight thanks to a massive and elaborate nativity scene filled with handcrafted elements both large and small.

The installation is captivating not only for its size but also for the painstaking detail in each scene - from village life to the story of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem. The model has quickly become a favorite photo spot and a gathering place for holiday spirit.

The man behind the creation is Nguyen Minh Thien, born in 1993 and a resident of Long Binh Ward in Dong Nai. His work is the result of nearly ten years of collecting thousands of figurines and accessories, many sourced internationally.

“Each miniature figure tells a story. I only dared to begin building a large-scale nativity scene once I had collected enough elements to portray the entire narrative,” said Thien.

If the figurines represent years of collecting, the scenery - from rocky mountains and flowing streams to ancient walls and busy markets - is entirely Thien’s creative realm. Starting with simple materials like foam, clay, baskets, and paint, he handcrafted each element with precision, carving and coloring them by hand.

Every stone, wall, basket, water jar, and fruit stand was sculpted manually. The level of realism is stunning - visitors can make out the grain of woven baskets, fabric folds, and the natural hues of vegetables in each miniature marketplace.

The layered design of streets, houses, and citadel walls creates a sense of visual depth. Once the lights are turned on, the entire model resembles a “miniature ancient city of Bethlehem” nestled within the grounds of Our Lady of Nui Cui.

Thien explained that the nativity scene is divided into sections, each corresponding to a chapter in the Christmas story.

From the angel’s annunciation to Mary and Joseph’s dream, to scenes of daily village life, the journey in search of shelter, and finally, the birth of Jesus in a stable - all are vividly and cohesively portrayed.

According to the artist, each setting transports viewers to a time long past, offering a visual narrative of the Christmas story beyond scripture or sermons.

“This year’s display is 2 meters longer than last year’s and includes many new scenes. I wanted viewers not only to witness the moment of Christ’s birth, but also to feel the social and cultural life of that time,” Thien shared.

What surprises many is that Thien has never studied fine arts or architecture. His skills come entirely from personal passion and self-learning. He started with small models and gradually honed his technique year after year.

“Creating a nativity scene requires patience and true passion. Every year, I try to bring something new and more beautiful to the audience,” he said.

For Thien, this model is more than a creative project - it’s a heartfelt gift to fellow believers. It’s his way of spreading Christmas joy, hope, and peace to everyone.

Since its unveiling, the installation has attracted a growing number of parishioners and pilgrims. It has quickly become one of the most popular check-in spots in Dong Nai. At night, when illuminated, the entire scene glows with warmth and wonder.

Representatives from the Nui Cui Pilgrimage Center describe this as one of the most elaborate and visually detailed nativity displays ever installed at the site. Visitor numbers are expected to keep rising throughout the 2025 Christmas season.

Hoang Anh