On the first Thursday of December, Cracovian nativity scene makers once again gathered at the foot of the statue of Adam Mickiewicz to take part in the 82nd contest. Their creations are now on display at the Krzysztofory Palace until the beginning of March. The beautiful tradition has been preserved by the Museum of Krakow for several decades, and the institution has been joined by the City of Kraków and KBF to once again showcase nativity scenes in the city space. Shopfronts, windows of hotels, restaurants and galleries and freestanding, illuminated cases proudly present a total of over 30 fairytale constructions; the most striking are naturally the largest, two-metre tall nativity scenes placed in popular squares throughout the city.

The importance of Cracovian nativity scene making – a unique tradition dating back to the 19th century and nurtured by families for many generations – was acknowledged in 2018 as Poland’s first item on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List. This special generational relay produces singular artworks presenting the canonical format intertwined with creators’ unbounded imagination. This year’s All Around Nativity Scenes walk features works by representatives of many acclaimed families, including the Malik, Dłużniewski, Markowski, Czyż, Freiberg and Zarzycki families, while images of famous artists welcome us at the post-contest exhibition.

Enjoy the city in a festive mood and explore Cracovian nativity scenes with us.