Krakow’s Nativity Scenes: A Dazzling Winter Exhibition at Kalmar Castle
This winter, Kalmar Castle will host a magical Christmas exhibition featuring around 30 stunning nativity scenes from Krakow, Poland. From December 12, 2024 to February 23, 2025, visitors can marvel at these colorful and shimmering creations that showcase a unique craft tradition dating back to medieval times.
The nativity scenes of Krakow are unlike any others in the world. They stand out for their splendor and creativity, with designs inspired by the city’s architecture, cultural history, and everyday life. The scenes incorporate elements from Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles, featuring Krakow’s domes, columns, and towers. Religious and secular figures appear side-by-side, often in unexpected ways that invite viewers to use their imagination.
Meg Nömgård, Castle Manager at Kalmar Castle, says: “It’s a unique craft we have the chance to showcase at Kalmar Castle this winter, and it fits well here since the castle has had close ties with Poland throughout history. Krakow’s nativity scenes are incredibly detailed and each one tells a story. To this day, annual nativity scene competitions are held in Krakow, so the tradition and creative joy is passed on to new generations.”
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
The unique nativity scenes of Krakow have been included on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2018. The scenes displayed at Kalmar Castle will range from miniatures to large-scale creations. A special nativity scene on loan from Linköping Cathedral will also be featured, depicting the cathedral itself and crafted by a Polish nativity scene master.
Historical Connection
The exhibition has a fitting historical connection to Kalmar Castle. In the 1570s, the castle hosted the newly crowned Swedish Queen Katarina Jagellonica, who originally came from Krakow. Rooms, chapels and a summer palace were prepared for her visits with King Johan III and their 5-year-old son Prince Sigismund.
Exhibition Details
The exhibition “Krakow’s Nativity Scenes – A Shimmering Winter Exhibition” will be displayed in the Sture Hall from December 12, 2024 to February 23, 2025. The exhibition hall is accessible by elevator. Guided tours titled “Spires, Towers and Tradition” will also be offered.
This unique showcase is presented in collaboration with the Historical Museum of Krakow, the Polish Institute, and the Polish National Tourist Office.
