The phenomenon of cultural communication in the context of polish christmas nativity scenes

The article traces the genesis, development, and current state of Polish Christmas nativity scenes as a form of cultural interaction. It identifies the role of nativity scenes in preserving and transmitting cultural traditions, as well as reflecting historical events. The article highlights their impact on the formation of national identity and collective memory, as well as their contribution to cultural communication both in Poland and beyond. Although the term "szopka" began to be used in the 19th century, the tradition of setting up nativity scenes in honor of the birth of Christ dates back to the Middle Ages. Nativity plays combined both religious and secular elements. The "live nativity scene," as a type of Christmas performance, not only recreated biblical events but also contributed to the preservation of cultural traditions, the mutual understanding between different peoples, and the strengthening of civic ties. Over time, representatives of the people (townspeople, peasants, artisans, and soldiers) began accompanying the Holy Family at the nativity scene. Szopki evolved: increasingly more national, folk, patriotic, and customary elements were added to their content and appearance. In the 18th century, nativity scenes with moving figures became popular. Among them, the Kraków nativity scenes (so-called Kraków Bethlehem), whose history dates back to the 19th century, are some of the most famous. They have survived to the present day and have been inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Nativity scenes in Poland, influenced by Franciscan traditions, became not only religious symbols but also cultural artifacts, blending biblical stories with secular elements. Over time, they constantly changed and acquired new forms and cultural meanings.