The Malta-crafted Nativity scene, featuring a replica of a traditional luzzu, that was installed at the Vatican last Christmas, is to have another international debut this year - in Bethlehem itself.

Justice and Culture Minister Owen Bonnici has confirmed with this newspaper that the Maltese crib is to be set up in Bethlehem shortly.

The crib enjoyed pride of place at the Vatican last year and more details about where in Bethlehem it is to be installed are expected to be announced by Bonnici next week.

The crib was donated by the Bishops of Malta and Gozo and the Government of Malta, and was the work of Gozitan artist Manwel Grech. It features 17 figures dressed in traditional Maltese garb, but it was the traditional luzzu that caught the eye of the Pope.

In fact, Pope Francis observed last year that the inclusion of a typical Maltese vessel recalled 'the sad and tragic reality of migrants on boats making their way towards Italy', and he expressed the hope that 'those who visit the Nativity scene would be invited to rediscover its symbolic value' which, he said, was 'a message of fraternity, of sharing, of welcome and solidarity.'

The crib was on display at the Vatican last year from the first week of December until 8 January.