Nativity Scene Vandalized in Canals

Case information
Incident date
Country
Spain
Place
Valencia
Categories
  • Social Hostility / Intolerance
Attack Against
  • Faith
Perpetrator / Motive Indicators
  • Private
Hate Crime & Violent Incidents
  • Vandalism (all)
  • Vandalism of Public Christian Symbol
Place of Incident
  • Public Christian Symbol (outside place of worship)
Bias Indicators
  • Lack of Other Motive
  • Significance of Property/Structure/Location to religious community
  • Victim/Witness Perception
Reported to Police
  • Yes
Response of Local Authorities
  • Investigated
Image credit: Ayuntamiento de Canals Facebook

Figures from the municipal nativity scene in Canals, Valencia, were found toppled and broken in Plaza del Puente del Río, adding to a troubling pattern of attacks on Christian symbols.

On December 23, 2024, the municipal nativity scene in Plaza del Puente del Río, Canals (Valencia), was vandalized during the night. Several statues were damaged: the figure of Saint Joseph had both hands broken, and the Virgin Mary’s limbs were fractured.

Local police launched an investigation and reported having leads on possible perpetrators. Although the scene was quickly repaired by the municipal brigade, the incident adds to a troubling pattern of attacks on Christian symbols in the region. The town council condemned the act and called for respect toward shared cultural and religious heritage.

Sources