Franciscan Birth of José Espinós - La Térmica Cultural

La Térmica Cultural is pleased to present a singular work from the collection of the National Museum of Decorative Arts: the Franciscan Nativity that the artist José Espinós Alonso created around 1945. This sculptural ensemble, made of iron, is exhibited to coincide with the celebration of the 800th anniversary of the first representation of the Nativity Scene, made by St. Francis of Assisi in Greccio, Italy.

The Espinós Alonso Nativity Scene is composed of fourteen iron figures that evoke the first living recreation of Christmas that St. Francis and his friars made in a grotto in Greccio, a mountain village near Rome. From this episode, which took place eight centuries ago, the tradition of nativity scenes was born.

In addition to the uniqueness of the material used, Espinós' work stands out for its
focus on shared universal values such as human dignity, justice, peace
and fraternity, qualities that Espinós masterfully captured in his figures. This set of sculptures
commemorates a century-old tradition, connecting with CIUDEN's purpose of preserving, approaching and transmitting heritage through contemporary approaches that
dialogue with our time.

About the artist and his legacy

José Espinós Alonso (Madrid, 1911-1969) is a relevant figure in 20th century Spanish sculpture. Recognized for his ability to work with iron. His works combine the strength and
minimalism of the industrial material with a modern, delicate and spiritual approach. The Nativity now presented entered the collections of the National Museum of Decorative Arts in 1948, almost coinciding with his production, becoming an outstanding example of how Espinós elaborates popular representations through modern materials such as iron to re-signify tradition.

Among his most outstanding creations are also the Monument to the Angels of Peace ( 1964), in Madrid, and the Monument to the Fishermen in Laredo (Cantabria).

A space for cultural encounters

The Birth of José Espinós Alonso is exhibited in the lobby of La Térmica Cultural. The initiative is part of the center's mission to bring history and heritage closer to the citizens, connecting past and present through an enriching visual narrative and in an environment, Bierzo and Laciana, where the tradition of the Nativity Scene resonates throughout both regions.

In addition to the collaboration with the National Museum of Decorative Arts, for the presentation of this nativity scene has also had the contribution of the Mining Culture Foundation, which has provided the local coal in a clear nod to the territories.