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Nativity Scene in Panewniki (Katowice)

Every December since about 1908, the basilica of Katowice-Panewniki has hosted one of the largest Christmas nativity scenes in Poland — practically since the church was built. The crib first stood in the right side of the temple; since 1947 it has been built at the high altar, and in 1981 an original Infant Jesus figure from Bethlehem was brought to Panewniki.

Since 2006 the stable forms a triptych 18 metres high and 32 metres wide. Its construction uses around 120 figures up to 150 cm tall — the oldest of them more than a century old. Hundreds of bulbs light the scenery, and the chief builder for years has been the sculptor and folk artist Paweł Jałowiczor, working under the supervision of the parish priest. The scene is unveiled on Christmas Eve and remains on view for several weeks; in the 2019/2020 season a figure of Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński appeared among the characters.

The living nativity at the Calvary

On the Calvary grounds, to the right of the church, a moving crib with live animals is also built each year: a pony, a jenny, alpacas, pheasants, rabbits, ducks, guinea fowl and pigeons. For the youngest visitors this is often the main attraction. During the Christmas season the St Francis Herbarium nearby serves cake and tea.

In practice

Visiting both nativity scenes is free of charge. The Basilica of St Louis the King and the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary stands at ul. Panewnicka 76 in Katowice-Panewniki.