When the Waldbreitbach Christmas Village opens on November 27, the popular natural root nativity scene will be in a new location. It cannot be set up as usual in the Maria Himmelfahrt parish church. As the church is freely accessible at all times, it is not possible to monitor compliance with hygiene regulations there.
As an alternative, however, the nativity scene makers are creating a large nativity scene in the "Marieneck" business premises at Neuwieder Straße 34, diagonally opposite the tourist information office. The premises are provided by Marieneck Gewerbeflächen GbR.
After fresh moss was collected, assembly began on Monday. After two days, the crib builders under the direction of master crib builder Stefan "Charly" Girnstein have already stacked and interlocked a large number of the natural roots. These are assembled into a large crib without nails, screws or wire. Up to 1,000 roots, which have been collected over the years in local forests, will be combined into this work of art by the nativity scene builders over many hours before the opening.
Unfortunately, the initiator of the Christmas village, Gustel Hertling, is no longer able to witness the construction as he passed away in July. But he is remembered at every event in the Christmas village. Next year, the nativity scene can be set up again in the parish church.