Piekary Nativity Scene (Piekarskie Betlejem)

On the Rajski Plac beside the basilica in Piekary Śląskie — the heart of the Sanctuary of Social Justice and Love, one of Upper Silesia's foremost Marian shrines — a Christmas display known as Piekarskie Betlejem (the Bethlehem of Piekary) is erected each season: at once a living and a moving nativity scene.

This is not the classic crib familiar from church altars. Next to the Holy Family stands a traditional miner's family, and the three kings are played by three rulers of the Piast dynasty. The moving platform features figures from the history of Silesia and Poland: John Paul II, Fr Jerzy Popiełuszko, St Hedwig of Silesia, Queen Jadwiga, John III Sobieski, Fr Augustyn Kordecki and Cardinal August Hlond — the latter helped bring about the coronation of the miraculous image of Our Lady of Piekary.

Live animals also have their little houses here: a donkey, ponies, goats and sheep, which draws families with children in particular.

In practice

The nativity scene appears on Rajski Plac on Christmas Eve and stays there until the end of January; admission is free. The square lies on ks. Jana Ficka Street, a few steps from the minor basilica to which pilgrims from all over Upper Silesia come all year round. After visiting, coffee and cake are served at the café in the Angel Garden by the basilica.