These are the famed szopki—intricate, often fantastical nativity scenes—and at the heart of this tradition stands Andrzej Malik, a modern-day craftsman carrying on a family legacy that stretches back four generations.
Malik’s journey as a szopki maker began when he was just six years old, when he crafted his first nativity scene under the watchful eye of his family. It wasn’t a surprising choice for a boy growing up surrounded by artistic giants—his father and aunt were celebrated creators in their own right, with commissions and exhibitions spanning the globe.
For Malik, crafting szopki was more than a hobby; it was a deep cultural calling.
But this tradition is not just a family affair—it's a hallmark of Krakow itself, deeply rooted in the city’s folklore. The szopki tell not just the story of Christ’s birth but also weave together threads of Krakow’s local culture, architecture, and history.
Krakow’s folklore calling card
At their core, szopki are more than just nativity scenes; they are miniaturized versions of the city’s architectural wonders, built with fantastical elements. Each szopka is typically at least two stories tall, with the Holy Family nestled on the upper floor, while the ground floor features local figures—from folk dancers to legendary creatures like the Wawel Dragon—capturing Krakow’s unique blend of past and present.
“My father used to say that the customary szopki colors stem from the traditional outfits of the Krakow region: the bright reds, blues, and greens. Black, gold, and silver, too, can be found in Lesser Poland folk costumes,” says Malik, whose family has made a name for themselves in the annual Krakow Szopki Competition, held at Krzysztofory Palace each December.
The competition is a spectacle in its own right, with szopki of all sizes and shapes lining the grand halls of the Palace. Whether large-scale masterpieces that fill entire rooms or smaller, more intimate creations, each szopka tells its own story—one of tradition, creativity, and devotion.
Lustrous history
Displaying figurines telling the story of the birth of Jesus is a Christian tradition dating back to medieval times and linked with St. Francis of Assisi.
Krakow’s version stems from the local carolling tradition—nattily dressed folk singers and masked actors telling the nativity tale, first in churches and, when that custom was banned for being too bawdy, in makeshift theatres.
By the mid-19th century, a true Krakow tradition had emerged: folk theatre shrank into miniature scenes that were easier to display and carry around.
As the tradition of making intricate nativity scenes in Krakow began to die out, it was revived just before World War II with a competition held at Krzysztofory Palace. The event begins with a procession of szopki, heralding the true beginning of the Christmas season in the Lesser Poland region.
A colorful, shiny tradition
One of the most striking features of szopki is their exuberant use of color. According to Malik, the vivid reds, blues, and greens seen in many szopki are inspired by the traditional folk costumes of the Lesser Poland region. Metallics like gold, silver, and black are also often incorporated, evoking the rich, detailed costumes of Krakow’s past.
The gleaming surfaces of these nativity scenes are another hallmark of the craft. Originally, creators used chocolate wrappers and tinfoil to add sparkle to the scenes. “The shinier it is, the better,” says Malik. “It’s part of what makes them so joyful and festive. There’s nothing more cheerful than wrapping your szopka in colorful candy wrappers.”
Though modern szopki makers may now source their materials from craft stores, Malik fondly recalls how his father would save every shiny piece of tinfoil from Christmas chocolates to use in their nativity scenes.
Innovation meets tradition
While the traditional szopka is an enduring symbol of Krakow’s heritage, modern creators are increasingly pushing the boundaries of this centuries-old craft. Malik, an architect by profession, is one such innovator.
For the 2024 Krakow Szopki Competition, he designed a szopka made from moss and wood, encased under glass—a stark departure from the more conventional materials typically used in traditional scenes.
But even with this innovative approach, Malik’s creation retains the spirit of his family’s work, featuring the signature two towers and intricate detailing that are the hallmark of the szopka tradition.
“One look at a szopka, and you know who made it. For example, my aunt chooses more blended, painterly colors, while others might have a signature angel, temple, or mechanical feature that marks their work,” he explained.
A family tradition for the ages
At the heart of every szopka is a deep connection to Krakow, a city steeped in history and tradition. For Malik, making these nativity scenes is about more than simply honoring his family legacy—it’s about continuing a practice that ties together generations, all while reflecting the changing world around them.
“What makes szopki so special is that they are passed down through families, generation after generation,” Malik says. “Each year we refine our craft, add new details, and adapt to the times, but we never lose sight of the tradition. It’s a beautiful way of sharing values and memories.”
As Christmas draws near, the szopki at Krzysztofory Palace will once again shine brightly, a testament to the enduring spirit of Krakow’s craftsmen and the timeless charm of these miniature nativity scenes.
TVP World’s December 17 episode of Pulse of Culture was dedicated to the phenomenon of szopki. You can watch it below. 
