At a glance
Origin: Provence, especially Marseille, Aix-en-Provence and Toulon
Theme: Traditional handmade clay figures used in Provençal Nativity scenes
Characteristics: Combination of biblical figures and characters from historical village life
Experience: Colorful Christmas markets and Santon fairs in December
Duration: 1–2 hours for a visit to a market or exhibition
Tip: Visit Foire aux Santons in Marseille – the oldest and largest in France
The Provençal Christmas tradition that never disappeared
While Christmas in Provence resembles the rest of France, one thing is completely unique: santons de Provence. These small, hand-painted figures depict both biblical scenes and ordinary people from Provençal village life. The tradition began after the French Revolution, when large church nativity scenes were banned, and families therefore started creating their own – and thus a completely unique culture emerged.
Craftsmanship with soul and history
When you see a santon up close, you quickly discover that it is not just a figure, but a small work of art. First, the figure is shaped in clay, then it is dried and fired, and finally it is painted by hand – often with great attention to detail. Therefore, each santon is actually unique. The tradition is often passed down from generation to generation, which means that many of the most recognized santonniers in Provence are family workshops with more than 100 years of history.
The people of the village – and the saints of Christmas
Unlike traditional Christmas nativity scenes, you’ll find among santons both the biblical main characters and an entire village of characters: the baker, the shepherd, the fishmonger, the shoemaker, and the always cheerful ravi, who stands with raised arms in gratitude. This blend makes Provençal nativity scenes alive and storytelling – like small theater scenes filled with stories.
Markets and Christmas fairs in Provence
Every year in November and December, Provence opens its doors to some of France’s most atmospheric Christmas markets. The most iconic is
A tradition that grows year after year
Many locals buy one or two new santons each year to slowly build their own Nativity scene. In this way, the scenery grows, and the tradition lives on in the homes. In fact, it often becomes a winter project to decorate the landscape with moss, small houses, artificial rivers, and mountain ranges – something that brings generations together.
Where can you experience santons?
If you visit the Côte d’Azur or Provence in December, it is almost impossible to avoid them. Many cities have their own markets, and even small shops and studios open their doors to visitors so you can see the craftsmanship up close.
Related Christmas articles:
Christmas Markets along the Côte d’Azur: See them in the Event Calendar
By Tommy Sverre – 2025
