We already knew that Barcelona would say goodbye to the nativity scene in Plaça Sant Jaume this year, but we still didn’t know what it would be replaced by. But now we have the information: instead of the nativity scene, Plaça Sant Jaume will host a giant luminous star that will take the place of the old manger illuminating the square.
This has been announced by the Barcelona City Council, which has reported that the star will have 20 points, will measure 9 meters in diameter and weigh 2.5 tons and will be made of iron, methacrylate and LED lights.
Its 20 points will project light on the facades of the City Hall and the Generalitat, creating a visual spectacle that wants to be the center of Christmas attention.
The installation, called “Origen”, has been designed by architect Xevi Bayona and digital creator Àlex Posada, who have already worked on light festivals in other cities.
An immersive dance of light every half hour
The luminous Christmas star will be lit on November 29 at 18:-30h, when the first performance of the show will take place.
The star will be lit every day starting at 6:30 p.m. and will remain illuminated until 10:00 p.m., offering a “light dance” show every half hour.
In addition, visitors will be able to connect their cell phones to the live sound via a QR code, synchronizing their music with the light show and making it an immersive spectacle.
A nativity scene inspired by the America’s Cup inside the City Hall
As previously announced, the nativity scene will disappear from the square to move inside the town hall building. Thus, the consistory will host a traditional nativity scene in the Pati de Carruatges, inspired by the sea and the America’s Cup sailing.
This nativity scene,made by the Asociación de Pessebristes de Barcelona, can be visited from November 29 to January 5. The Generalitat will also have its own nativity scene in the Pati Gòtic, accessible from **16 to 20 December.