<p>Tucked away along the narrow Neapolitan street of Via San Gregorio Armeno, Italian shopkeepers began putting up their Christmas decorations on Wednesday (November 7), like they do every year.<br /><br />But this year, the traditional nativity scenes contained a surprise -- a proud-looking miniature of newly re-elected U.S President Barack Obama nestled amongst the sheep and Baby Jesus.<br /><br />Craftsman have been carving nativity scenes since the 19th century along this street and have used their art to portray important events of the times.<br /><br />Italian fans of the U.S. President said his likeness in the nativity scenes is a portrayal of how important his role is in today's world.<br /><br />Naples, Italy has strong historical ties with the United States -- U.S. forces were stationed in Naples at the end of the second World War and many Italian immigrants left the city to start new lives in the States. As a result, Neapolitans take a keen interest in U.S. affairs.<br /><br />The Neopolitan nativity scenes developed into an art form in the Baroque period and traditionally included biblical characters. Many Italian families have a scene on display in their homes during the Christmas period.<br /><br />Over the years the displays became more complex, often mechanized with miniature windmills, waterfalls and wine and olive presses to portray everyday life.<br /><br />Shopkeepers joked, saying for those looking for a good bargain, big discounts would be available on figurines of Republican candidate Mitt Romney -- if they got any takers.</p>
