Admiring unique over-7m-long nativity grotto with thousands of handcrafted details in Dong Nai

This Christmas season, the Our Lady of Nui Cui Pilgrimage Center in Thong Nhat commune, Dong Nai province, is more vibrant than ever, with a nativity scene model that stretches over 7 meters and is composed of thousands of finely crafted, handmade details. The installation is a highlight of the festive season, attracting large numbers of parishioners and visitors who come to admire it and capture memorable moments.

The unique nativity scene model attracts large numbers of parishioners and visitors for viewing and admiration. Photo: Thuy Tien

Unlike conventional nativity scenes, the installation stands out for its large scale and meticulous craftsmanship in every detail. From village streets and daily life to statues depicting the Nativity of Jesus, all elements come together to form a vivid and realistic miniature “ancient city of Bethlehem.”

A project born of nearly a decade of dedication

The work is designed with multiple visual layers, creating a strong sense of depth and making the entire nativity scene appear as a miniature “ancient city of Bethlehem.” Each section is arranged clearly and coherently, bringing the scene to life and guiding viewers back in time to experience the Christmas story through vivid and emotionally resonant imagery.

The entire nativity scene model appears as a miniature “ancient city of Bethlehem.” Photo: Thuy Tien

Each scene is arranged clearly and vividly. Photo: Thuy Tien

This accomplishment is the result of the long-standing dedication of Nguyen Minh Thien, a resident of Long Binh ward, Dong Nai province. Driven by a passion for art and a special affection for Christmas, he has spent more than a decade collecting thousands of finely crafted figurines and decorative accessories, most of which were ordered from overseas, to complete this distinctive nativity scene.

Thousands of finely crafted details and decorative accessories are used to create the special nativity scene model. Photo: Courtesy of the subject

Nguyen Minh Thien shared: “The most difficult part is not the design or construction, but the figurines that are the ‘soul’ of the nativity scene. Each statue, each character tells its own story. Only when all scenes are complete do I feel confident enough to carry out a project of this scale.”

Exquisite handcrafted artistry by a “self-taught artist”

While the figurine collection is the result of many years of careful acquisition, the scenery is entirely a handcrafted creation by Nguyen Minh Thien. Using simple materials such as clay, foam, rope, and wooden sticks, he personally cuts, shapes, carves, and paints each element, forming layers of rock, fortress walls, market stalls, and small details that depict the daily life of villagers.

All details and scenery are handcrafted by Nguyen Minh Thien. Photo: Courtesy of the subject

Notably, Thien has never received formal training in fine arts or architecture. All techniques are self-taught, yet each miniature scene is crafted with meticulous precision, so detailed that viewers can discern individual veins, fabric folds, and the natural colors of vegetables and produce.

Each detail is crafted with meticulous care and vivid realism. Photo: Thuy Tien

Le Quynh Phuong, a resident of Phu Nhuan ward, Ho Chi Minh City, said: “From the photos, I already found it very beautiful, but seeing it in person was truly surprising. It feels very different from the nativity scenes I usually see. I was especially impressed by the small details of food items. They are very intricate, and you can immediately recognize what each item is.”

Le Quynh Phuong and her family happily pose for photos beside the distinctive nativity scene. Photo: Thuy Tien

When the lights are turned on, every corner of the model comes into focus, from terracotta rooftops, market areas, and streets to the smallest details of village life. The setting gives many visitors the impression of stepping into a miniature “ancient city of Bethlehem” in the heart of Dong Nai.

Many visitors capture sparkling details of the Christmas nativity scene model. Photo: Thuy Tien

“The model is extremely elaborate, meticulous, and finely crafted. The artisan must have exceptional skills, as the overall layout is sublime and realistic, making me feel as though I am actually stepping into this place,” said Le Thi Ngoc Xuan, a visitor from Rach Dua ward, Ho Chi Minh City.

Tran Nguyen Nhu Quynh (Tran Bien ward, Dong Nai province) records images to preserve memories. Photo: Thuy Tien

Neighborhoods, houses, market stalls, and fortress walls are arranged in multiple layers, creating a strong sense of visual depth. Photo: Thuy Tien

Since its completion, the Christmas nativity scene at the Our Lady of Nui Cui Pilgrimage Center has become a distinctive tourist attraction in Dong Nai, drawing large numbers of locals and visitors. Many spend hours admiring each detail and capturing shimmering moments as the lights are switched on.

By Thuy Tien – Translated by Huyen Trang, Minho