In pictures: Floating nativity brings Christmas to Venice lagoon

Painted by a local greengrocer, the figures have been planted on wooden stakes

Last updated: December 19, 2020 | 13:03

Reuters and compiled by Balaram Menon, Senior Web Editor

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A group of 60 plywood nativity figures floats in an open stretch of water in Venice's lagoon, with a church as a festive backdrop.

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Painted by local greengrocer Francesco Orazio, the figures have been planted on wooden stakes.

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Their feet emerging for just a couple of hours a day when the tide ebbs, Joseph, Mary, the ox and the donkey surround Baby Jesus under a hut, as a wise king approaches.

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Shepherds, animals and other characters can be seen nearby as small boats sail a short distance away.

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A nativity scene display designed by local greengrocer Francesco Orazio is seen over the water surface of Venice's lagoon by Burano island, ahead of Christmas.

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The nativity scene display designed by local greengrocer Francesco Orazio is seen over the water surface of Venice's lagoon by Burano island.

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A nativity scene display designed by local greengrocer Francesco Orazio is seen over the water surface of Venice's lagoon by Burano island, ahead of Christmas, in Venice, Italy, December 15, 2020. Picture taken December 15, 2020. REUTERS/Manuel Silvestri

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