This year, my wife carried on a beloved tradition in a public space, as our baby, now just 10 months old will certainly re-arrange it on a daily basis.
If you’ve scanned the QR code at the installation, welcome to the story behind this display!
The nativity scene, lovingly crafted and displayed in Porto Moniz village, is a heartfelt tribute to Ribeira Funda, our home. Its design was inspired by a viral aerial photograph of the area, which reveals a heart shape formed by the lush vegetation and the unique contours of the land. This magical perspective inspired her to recreate the feeling of looking at our village from above, surrounded by floating clouds.
Each small house in the display was hand-molded and painted with great care, all while ensuring our baby didn’t damage the pieces he watched so closely. The scene includes meaningful details such as our green water reservoir, our chapel, and the old school. For a playful touch, some buildings feature gold leaf—a humorous nod to the high land prices in the area.
The structure of the nativity is made using brown paper recycled from animal feed sacks, a traditional material in our region. The paint, “viochen,” was purchased from a local hardware store.
While traditional nativity decorations often include natural moss, forest ferns, and sprouted wheat pots, this year my wife opted for reusable moss and grass for practicality.
For visitors to this exhibition, this nativity represents not only the Christmas season but also the spirit and beauty of Ribeira Funda, a little slice of paradise in Madeira.
This nativity is currently displayed at the exhibition space in Porto Moniz village, and we invite you to visit. If you’re exploring Madeira and wish to take a detour, it’s also possible to pass by Ribeira Funda on the way to Seixal to experience the charm of this special place firsthand. Feel free to reach out to add this stop to your private tour itinerary!
Next year, with more time and our baby a little older, my wife hopes to fully embrace the traditional natural elements at home. Until then, this display stands as a reflection of creativity, humor, and love for our community and our home.
Vote number 14
The origins of the word ‘lapinha’ (nativity)
The term “lapinha” for a nativity scene in Madeira originates from the word “lapa”, which means “cave” in Portuguese. This is a reference to the traditional belief that Jesus was born in a stable or grotto, often depicted in nativity scenes. Over time, the word “lapinha” evolved as a diminutive form, reflecting the small, intricate, and often handmade nature of these displays.
In Madeira, the lapinha is more than a simple nativity; it’s deeply tied to local traditions, blending Christian symbolism with cultural elements. Historically, Madeiran families constructed their lapinhas with natural materials from the land, such as moss, stones, and ferns, to create a lush and lifelike setting. These scenes were often arranged in tiers or steps, resembling the terraced landscapes of Madeira itself.
The lapinha also incorporates a strong connection to the cycle of life and harvest, as families traditionally included pots of germinated wheat, barley, or lentils, symbolising renewal and abundance. This blend of faith, nature, and local creativity makes the Madeiran lapinha a unique expression of the island’s heritage.
Today, the word continues to capture not only the nativity scene but also the sense of community, tradition, and artistry that surrounds its creation in Madeira. Ours is a modern version.
More details about the event: Monicípio de Porto Moniz