The recent floods in Valencia have sparked widespread solidarity and support, but they’ve also fuelled public outrage directed at both central and regional governments. Criticism of Valencian president Carlos Mazón has even taken a satirical turn, becoming the focus of Catral artist Moisés Cruz’s latest nativity scene.
Every year since the devastating Vega Baja floods in 2019, Cruz has created a nativity scene reflecting key events and controversies of the year. This December, he has dedicated his work entirely to the recent catastrophic floods in the province of Valencia.
Satirical Elements Highlight Key Moments
Cruz’s nativity scene, installed in its traditional spot on Avenida de Callosa, offers a humorous yet pointed critique of political and social responses to the disaster. The piece reimagines the restaurant where Mazón was reportedly speaking with a journalist as floodwaters ravaged towns; renamed “El Pedorro” (The Gassy), it humorously underscores public frustration.
Mazón himself is depicted as the caganer figure—a tradition in Spanish nativity scenes symbolizing someone responsible for the year’s biggest blunders.
The Holy Family is also portrayed in an unusual light. Baby Jesus and the Virgin Mary are shown perched on the roof of the nativity stable, seeking refuge from the floodwaters of the Magro River and Poyo Rambla.
Spotlighting Criticism and Gratitude
The nativity scene also extends its satire to other public figures. King Felipe VI appears holding an umbrella, while Pedro Sánchez and other political leaders are shown fleeing the disaster. Yet, amidst the satire, Cruz pays homage to the heroes of the crisis: volunteers who aided flood victims.
They are symbolized by the “Bridge of Solidarity” spanning the Turia River, acknowledging the altruism of those who stepped up to help during the tragedy.
A Tradition of Commentary Through Art
This year’s nativity scene continues Cruz’s tradition of blending humour, social critique, and artistic expression to reflect on the issues that shaped the past year.
From the floods of Vega Baja to this year’s calamities, his work remains a vivid testament to the region’s resilience and a platform for voicing its frustrations.
Cruz’s nativity scene is not just a holiday display—it’s a poignant reminder of the community’s struggles and the need for accountability and solidarity in times of crisis.
