Most people of a certain age are gripped by nostalgia whenever they come across cribs, which used to occupy an important place in households at Christmas time.

Customs change and for many years illuminated Christmas trees replaced the crib and the tradition appeared to be on the way out. But thanks to the work of the Friends of the Crib Society interest in the crib tradition in Malta started to pick up again in the latter part of the last century.

The society proudly reports that, today, the crib has won back its important place in Maltese and Gozitan homes.

Set up in 1986, the society held lectures on crib-making for members and even mounted an annual crib exhibition which has now become an integral part of the calendar of activities at Christmas time.

The 21st exhibition of Christmas cribs, made in different sizes, shapes and media by society members, is on at St Francis Hall, in Melita Street, Valletta (round the corner from St Francis church in Republic Street) until December 21. It was inaugurated on Monday and was opened to the public yesterday.

There are about 80 cribs, which will be on show daily from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 4.30 to 7.30 p.m.

Anyone wanting to take groups of tourists or schoolchildren should phone 2124 4333 to make an appointment.