Let yourself be transported into the Christmas story in Olomouc churches

In the fixed arrangement of the displayed nativity scenes, there is always a manger with the Holy Family, including a donkey, an ox and an angel. Shepherds with sheep and three kings are also always on display. Other figures may vary depending on the author and the concept.

A nativity scene with almost life-size figures can be found from December in the Church of the Annunciation in Kapucínská Street.

In St. Michael’s Church, the 19th-century plaster nativity scene is still without the figure of Jesus, who is put in it only on Christmas Eve during the afternoon children’s Mass.

An interesting nativity scene carved from olive wood can be admired in St. Moritz Church. It is usually put together just before Christmas Eve and for more than 20 years it has been gradually expanded and supplemented with figures that come directly from the town of Bethlehem.

A plaster polychrome nativity scene from the first half of the 20th century is usually on display at Our Lady of the Snows Church from Christmas Eve onwards.

A large-scale nativity scene with wooden figures and moving elements that will be of particular interest to children can be seen in St Wenceslas Cathedral.

And in the Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary at Svatý Kopeček near Olomouc, you can admire a beautiful nativity scene whose oldest elements date from the first half of the 19th century.

The cribs on display not only showcase craftsmanship but also convey the message of peace and hope that is inherent in Christmas. The Olomouc Nativity Scenes guide, which you can pick up free of charge at the Olomouc Information Centre in the arcade of the town hall, will tell you which churches you can find them in and when.