Banskoštiavnický betlehem

About the museum

The Banskoštiavnický betlehem (Banská Štiavnica Nativity Scene) depicts a Christmas motif but also shows the development, history and traditions of the mining town. The base of the wood carving consists of permoníci (mine spirits) as rulers of the underworld and the historic coat of arms of the town; above them are the methods of medieval gold and silver mining, according to a treatise on mining and metallurgy. Next comes the biblical nativity with the three kings and miner shepherds, and above it a panorama of Banská Štiavnica with its landmarks – the Holy Trinity Square, the Old Castle, the New Castle, Calvary and the Piarist Gate.

The nativity scene is about 21 metres long, 2.5 metres wide and 3 metres high. It contains about 800 figures, of which about 400 are moving. Along the room's supporting column the newest section was added, with crafts and the little train Štiavnická Anča. The author is Ing. arch. Peter Chovan from Dekýš. The nativity scene receives no subsidy from the state or the church, which is why a symbolic admission fee is charged to run it.

Highlights

• Nativity scene about 21 m long with 800 wooden figures, of which 400 move
• Panorama of Banská Štiavnica with its landmarks and mining traditions
• Mine spirits as rulers of the underworld and depiction of medieval ore mining
• Newest section with crafts and the little train Štiavnická Anča

Permanent exhibition

• Banskoštiavnický betlehem – Wooden moving nativity scene with 800 figures, depicting the history and landmarks of Banská Štiavnica and the life of its miners.

Admission & discounts

The nativity scene receives no subsidy from the state, the church or any other institution, which is why a symbolic admission fee is charged for its operation and maintenance.

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

The museum invites visitors to bring their children along as well.

Getting there & parking

The nativity scene is in the courtyard of Radničné námestie (Town Hall Square), directly across from the entrance to the courtyard.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.