The nativity scene combines the white gold of the municipality with traditional artisanal elements from the interior of the local mountains, such as basketry and cane work, highlighting the ancestral skills of the local people.

Along the approximately 35 meters of the nativity scene, 12 tons of salt are distributed, of which four tons were reused from the previous year, and about a thousand figures, according to a report by Sul Infomação.

Several woven pieces in the nativity scene were produced by local artisans from Junqueira, including Albina Sequeira, Maria Fernanda Fernandes, and Sebastião Sequeira.

One of the main highlights this year is a cane basket nativity scene, created by Martinho Fernandes and Paula Gaspar, which occupies a central position in the Casa do Sal (Salt House).

The inauguration of the nativity scene also included a presentation by the Amendoeiras em Flor Cultural Association.

This nativity scene aims to promote and reinforce salt as the main economic, social, and cultural driver of Castro Marim, while also valuing local crafts and arts.

"The promotion of salt and ancestral arts is fundamental for reaffirming the intangible heritage of the municipality of Castro Marim, and for its continuity with a focus on originality and a constant evolution and adaptation of traditional materials and techniques to the present day," states the local council.

The Salt and Arts Nativity Scene exhibition remains open to the public until January 6th at Casa do Sal, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

This initiative is organized by the Castro Marim Parish Council, in partnership with the municipality.