Soria’s Town Council wanted to close the year 2020 with the installation of a new Nativity scene, which would kick off the ‘Soria 2030’ project. The scene is crafted out of natural and reusable elements, from which Soria pinewood stands out as an example of what can be achieved through a circular and sustainable economy.
Thus, a wooden Nativity scene, carved with a chainsaw by pine artisan José Llorente, has been installed at the Town Square. These figures were chiselled from offcuts from the province's forests. Notably, it is not only the traditional figures from the Nativity that have been represented, but also some of the local flora and fauna. There are figures of roe deer and of a small flock of sheep, as well as a series dedicated to mycology, which is so characteristic of Soria's natural wealth. There are also some more fanciful figures, such as a druid at one of the entrances, as well as turtles at some of the corners, which were donated by the pine capital of Pedrajas. Finally, there is artificial smoke to recreate the atmosphere of Soria’s forest in winter. Root balls, bark, olive trees and a large fir tree, along with masses of tepex, make up a large circuit of about 700 square metres. After January 6th, decoration will be taken down and the lawn will be reutilized in the city’s green areas, or be replanted.
The aim of this initiative is…
- To offer a leisurely alternative to the typical stroll one would take through Soria’s City Centre, and one that has gotten a great response, especially from children.
- To revalue Soria's natural resources, such as the forests that represent it, and particularly Soria pinewood, one of the main resources on which to base the development and growth of the province.
- To appreciate the area’s fauna and flora, beautifully carved in wood by artist José Llorente, along with the traditional elements of the Nativity and other, more fanciful characters that spark the imagination.
- To offer an alternative where Christmas decorations are 100% made with elements that can either return to their source, or be reutilized.
Regarding sanitation, this year the City Council has looked for ways to celebrate the holidays and let people enjoy public spaces, while adapting to the ongoing pandemic. To this end, the activities were spread out in different locations, such as San Nicolás, the Town Square, Espolón and Dehesa, to avoid congestion.
The outdoors installations included signalled walking circuits and, in some cases, people had to book in advanced, in efforts to prioritize health and hygiene measures recommended by the health authorities.
