The very first nativity scene in history was arranged by St. Francis of Assisi in a grotto near Greccio in 1223. At first, such cribs were built mainly at Franciscan monasteries. Over time, the tradition spread across Europe, with Italy becoming its real heart. In Poland, the custom was introduced by the Franciscans at the end of the 13th century.
In Wambierzyce, the tradition of building moving nativity scenes goes back to the 18th century, when Konrad Hilberg settled as a hermit behind the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows. He carved and set in motion the first scene, which sadly did not survive. The present nativity scene was started by Longin Wittig around 1850. After moving with his family to Wambierzyce in 1882, he began showing his masterpiece to locals.
Full of intricate, colorful, and moving figures, the crib quickly became a sensation for pilgrims and tourists. Encouraged by visitors, Wittig later added a showcase of the Way of the Cross. After his death in 1895, his son Hermann Wittig (1857–1932) took over, expanding the work with new scenes: the Massacre of the Innocents, the Holy Family at work, the boy Jesus in the temple, the Last Supper, the apparition in Lourdes, a coal mine, and even a local folk festivity.
In 1946, the care of the nativity scene was passed to the parish. Today, the moving nativity scenes of the Wittig family are among the most treasured monuments of Wambierzyce. For over a century, they have amazed both children and adults alike.
Opening hours
9:00 – 18:00 daily (May – September)
10:00 – 16:00 daily (October – April)
Closed: January 1, Easter, November 1, December 25
Tickets
12 PLN – regular
10 PLN – reduced (seniors, pensioners, students)
8 PLN – reduced (children & youth 3–18, Large Family Card, groups min. 25 people)
Tours start every 30 minutes. We warmly welcome you!
+48 74 871 91 97 (during opening hours)
