Sometimes the most important and impressive things are invisible to the naked eye, but we all know that they are real and true.This is the world’s smallest Nativity Scene; and although you cannot see it with your naked eye, it is real and it is here.
In this picture you can see an exact replica of the Nativity Scene at Cathedral Square, which has been reduced to nanoscale dimensions, making it invisible to the human eye. In this nanoscale, Baby Jesus is smaller than the a human cell!
Nativity Scene in Vilnius Cathedral Square
Each year, the holiday season at Vilnius’ Cathedral Square is marked not only by one of the most beautiful Christmas tree in the world, but also by the spectacular composition of the traditional Cristmas Nativity Scene – the Holy Family, the Three Wisemen greeting the Holy Family, Shepherds and animals.
Camel versus Eye of the Needle...
High-Tech and Christmas Synergy
The idea was implemented by the joint team of Vilnius Gediminas Technical University and LinkMenų Factory together with the Vilnius University Laser Research Center and the private companies Femtika and Idea 3D. The production of a nano-nativity scene took three months. VGTU students and researchers together private sector companies have joined three technological processes: 3D scanning, 3D modeling and 3D laser nano printing. Lastly, the Nativity Scene that is displayed at the Cathedral Square was reduced by 10,000 times and fitted into the area of human cell size. The project's organizational partners are the Vilnius Archbishopric, Go Vilnius, Invest Lithuania.
In total, five copies of the nano-mast have been made.
Lithuania is one of the leaders in laser technologies in the world. This extraordinary project sends a message about the opportunities and achievements of the Lithuanian scientists and high technology market as well as the harmonious Vilnius city academic and cultural spirit. Vilnius is both a spiritually and technologically open city.
The Smallest Nativity Scene to Become the Smallest Gift Ever Given
Former Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaitė sent one of the five nano-Nativity Scenes to Pope Francis as a Christmas gift in December 2017. The second one remains in the Lithuanian Presidential Palace in Vilnius and the third – in the Archdiocese of Vilnius.
Throughout this joyous holiday season, we want to remind more and more people that the good deeds and feelings we share with one another are often invisible. Invisible but no less real, no less reliable and no less important to each and every one of us.
"I am really proud that Lithuanian scientists and students created the smallest nativity scene in the world. This sincere innovation – is a gift from Lithuanian people to Pope Francis, who is eagerly awaited in Lithuania".
Former President of Republic of Lithuania Dalia Grybauskaitė
Vilnius Christmas Magic
Christmas in Vilnius 2017
Made possible by:
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Presidency of the Republic of Lithuania (idea patron)
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Vilnius Archdiocese (idea partner and author of the Original Nativity Scene)
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VGTU "LinkMenu fabrikas" (main partner, project coordinator, 3D scanning, 3D modeling, communication)
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Vilnius University Laser Research Centre (nano printing technology)
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“Invest Lithuania” (idea, partners co-ordination)
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“Go Vilnius” (communication partner, Guinness World Records coordinator)
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JSC “Femtika” (object nano-printing)
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JSC “Idėja 3D” (object 3D scanning)