 In southern Italy living nativity scenes ( called presepe vivente in Italian ) , are extremely popular , and are rather elaborate affairs , which feature the classic nativity scene as well as a mock rural 19th @-@ century village , complete with artisans in traditional costumes working at their particular trades . These attract many visitors and have been televised by Italy 's national station RAI . In 2010 , the old city of Matera in Basilicata hosted the world 's largest living nativity scene of the time , which was performed in the historic center Sassi . 
