14/12/2024
Exhibitions of Nativity Scenes (Christmas cribs) in Prague 2024.
Ancient Nativity Scene in Loreta – Prague 1, Hradčany:
There is nothing comparable in the Czech Republic, making it impossible to draw close parallels. The Nativity scene, displayed annually in the Church of Our Lady Queen of Angels (Loreta), likely dates back to the second quarter of the 18th century. It is an impressive collection of 48 figures in total (32 human and 16 animal), with many nearly life-sized. The ancient Nativity scene will be open for viewing from December 25, 2024, to January 12, 2025.
Trentino Nativity Scenes at the Charles Bridge Museum:
An original exhibition of Nativity scenes can be seen at the Charles Bridge Museum. Visitors will once again admire the straw Nativity scene by artist Andrzej Wrzecionek, featuring larger-than-life figures. This year’s highlight, however, will be the Trentino Nativity scenes, modeled after those created by people in the Italian Trentino region. This local tradition is as strong as its Czech counterpart, and Trentino was historically part of Austria. The Trentino Nativity scenes will be on display from December 1, 2024, to February 2, 2025.
Nativity Scene at St. Joseph’s Church in Malá Strana and Baby Jesus in the Cradle:
From December 24 to 26, 2024, and again on December 31, January 1, and January 12, 2025, visitors can view the Nativity scene in the Malá Strana Church of St. Joseph. The scene features a simple setting with the Holy Family resting in a modest hut. During Christmas, the church also displays a figurine of Baby Jesus in a cradle, honoring the old tradition in women’s monasteries of rocking Baby Jesus to the sound of carols.
Nativity Museum at the Infant Jesus of Prague – Karmelitská Street, Prague 1:
A large painted Nativity scene is usually displayed outside the Church of Our Lady Victorious, guiding visitors from the tram stop to the church entrance. Inside, there are modern cribs decorated by children participating in pre-Christmas programs. The museum houses a permanent exhibition of Nativity scenes from around the world, including Central and South America, Canada, the Philippines, and beyond. Entry to the museum, located inside the church to the right of the main altar, is free. Opening hours are Monday to Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Nativity Scene at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul at Vyšehrad:
The Nativity scene in the Vyšehrad Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul was likely crafted in the 19th century. It consists of thirteen figures, including the Holy Family in life-size proportions, along with five animal figures. The refined carving of the figures and the crib's arrangement make this one of the most beautiful Nativity scenes in Prague. It can be viewed from December 24 to 26, December 31, and January 1, 2025, as well as January 8, 2025.
Gingerbread Nativity Scene at St. Matthew’s Church – Prague 6, Dejvice:
In the small St. Matthew’s Church, visitors will find a gingerbread Nativity scene with up to 250 figurines. The delightful scent of gingerbread invites you to the church from Christmas Eve to December 26 and on January 1, 2025.
We Love Nativity Scenes at the Czech Christmas Museum – Břevnov Monastery:
The Czech Christmas Museum at Břevnov Monastery will host an intriguing exhibition, We Love Nativity Scenes, from December 14, 2024, to January 5, 2025. The exhibition features a variety of artistic and folk Nativity scenes from across the Czech Republic, ranging from a miniature from Prague to a six-meter-long scene from the Orlické Mountains. Visitors can participate in activities such as creating a Nativity figure, assembling their own Nativity scene, taking photos with Baby Jesus, learning about lesser-known folk customs, or using the wishing tree and the bell of happiness.
