Nativity scene (szopka) tradition

The Krakow tradition of 'carolling' with nativity scenes dates back to the 19th century. Each year, on the first Thursday of December, nativity scene artists bring their works to the Main Square and display them on the steps of the Adam Mickiewicz monument, where they can be admired.

Nativity scene (szopka) tradition in Krakow 

The Krakow tradition of 'carolling' with nativity scenes dates back to the 19th century. Originally, the craft of making nativity scenes was practised by artisans from the outskirts of Krakow, particularly in areas such as Krowodrza and Zwierzyniec. Smaller nativity scenes were eagerly purchased by city dwellers, who used them to decorate their homes and to give as gifts to their loved ones. Meanwhile, larger scenes, adorned with exquisite puppets and illuminated from within by candle flames, served as portable theatres. During the festive season, these scenes, accompanied by live music, were a cherished tradition in the homes of affluent Krakowian families. 
 

However, it slowly began to fade after World War I. In order to preserve these nativity scene traditions for future generations, Jerzy Dobrzycki (1900-1972), head of the municipal propaganda department, organised the first Krakow Nativity Scene Competition in 1937. After World War II, the competitions were resumed, with the organisation taken up by the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow, which continues this tradition to this day. The aim of the competition is to safeguard and develop Krakow's nativity scene traditions, which have evolved over several decades to become a globally recognised and esteemed phenomenon. The competition plays a crucial role in promoting and celebrating this unique element of intangible cultural heritage. 
 

The Krakow nativity scene is a creative representation of the Nativity of Jesus Christ set within the context of Krakow's architecture and traditions. These scenes typically feature elaborate and colourful designs, symmetrical, often multi-tiered and illuminated, constructed using imaginatively adapted architectural elements from Krakow's landmarks. They also incorporate figurines representing characters from Christian tradition and Krakow's cultural history. These figures are arranged in various scenes or animated using mechanisms, depicting biblical narratives as well as local customs, legends, characters, and contemporary themes.  
 

Each year, on the first Thursday of December, nativity scene artists bring their works to the Main Square and display them on the steps of the Adam Mickiewicz monument, where they can be admired. Following the noon bugle call, a procession of nativity scenes winds its way around the Square, accompanied by a traditional folk band from Bronowice. The procession culminates in a presentation of the nativity scenes and artists on stage. Subsequently, the works are transported to the Krzysztofory Palace for judging by a panel comprising historians, ethnographers, art historians, architects, and artists. 
 

The significance of this cultural phenomenon is highlighted by its inscription on the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2014. Furthermore, since 2018, the tradition of crafting nativity scenes has been the first entry from Poland on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. 

This pilot is realised by : 

Leading partner: Muzeum Krakowa

Associated partners:
Jagiellonian University, Institute of Ethnology and Cultural Anthropology, Polish Ethnological Society