Krakow’s nativity scene in Cracow
New Kraków Nativity Scene medal available from the display stand in the shop at Celestat on Lubicz 16 Street and at Krzysztofory Palace on the Main Market Square in Kraków!
Post-Competition Exhibition of Kraków Nativity Scenes – Nativity Scenes at Celestat. The exhibition at Celestat showcases nativity scenes that participated in the 76th Kraków Nativity Scene Competition, traditionally organized by the Historical Museum of the City of Kraków on the first Thursday of December at the Main Market Square. This competition, initiated by the long-time director of the museum, Dr. Jerzy Dobrzycki, has been held since 1937 (with the exception of WWII) and has become a permanent fixture in the city’s cultural landscape.
The nativity scenes are judged by the competition jury in four age categories (children, youth, seniors, and families) and four size groups (large, medium, small, and miniature). During deliberations, the jury evaluates: traditionality, architecture, color scheme, figurines and narrative, moving elements and lighting, innovation, decorativeness, and overall aesthetic impression. The award ceremony takes place on the Sunday following the first Thursday of December.
The Kraków nativity scene tradition dates back to the 19th century. At that time, nativity scenes were crafted by artisans from Kraków’s suburbs. Larger nativity scenes served as portable theaters that, accompanied by live music, visited the homes of wealthy Kraków families during the holiday season. Smaller handmade pieces were purchased by townspeople to decorate their homes or give as gifts. While modern nativity scenes have lost some of their ritual significance, they continue to amaze with their craftsmanship, precision, creativity, and artistic vision, where religious contemplation meets love for Kraków.
The creators of these nativity scenes come from all ages and professions. Some belong to families with generations of nativity-making traditions. Preparations for the competition often take many months or even years. The structures are typically made of wood, plywood, and cardboard, decorated with colored paper, tissue paper, and tinsel – multicolored, shiny metallic foil. The architecture of the nativity scenes references Kraków’s historic buildings, offering creative interpretations that showcase the artists’ imagination. Common motifs include St. Mary’s Basilica, the Sigismund Chapel at Wawel Castle, the Barbican, Cloth Hall, and St. Florian’s Gate.
The identity of each nativity scene is emphasized by symbols of Kraków and Poland: the letter “K,” the crowned eagle, and white-blue and white-red flags. The central place is reserved for the Nativity scene. In addition to the Holy Family, typical figures include the Three Kings, shepherds with their flocks, angels playing instruments, King Herod, as well as characters from Kraków legends like the Lajkonik with his hobbyhorse, Pan Twardowski on the moon, and the Wawel Dragon. The scenes are populated by important Polish historical figures: Kościuszko with his scythe-bearers, the jester Stańczyk, John Paul II, kings and bishops, as well as anonymous knights, students, and figures from folk traditions: Death, the Devil, carolers with the Turoń (mythical beast), a Jew, and dancing couples in Kraków and highlander costumes. Contemporary figures also appear, including pop culture personalities like famous athletes, politicians, social activists, clergy, artists, as well as nativity scene creators themselves, competition jury members, and museum staff.
