The main nativity scene contains over 350 individual carved figures, some of which move to mimic daily rural tasks like sawing, forging, and spinning.
The entire mechanism was originally powered by a small steam engine before being converted to electricity.
In 1967, the Probošt Nativity Scene was exhibited at Expo '67 in Montreal, gaining international acclaim.
The wood used for the figures is primarily linden, known for its consistent texture and ease of carving.
The nativity scene is built in a tiered fashion, spanning over 7 meters in length and 3 meters in width.
It took over 40 years of continuous work by three local craftsmen to complete the original masterpiece.
The museum collection includes rare paper nativity scenes, some dating back to the mid-19th century.
The building was designed to meet strict climate-control standards to preserve the antique wooden mechanisms.
The Třebechovice Nativity Museum houses the Třebechovice Probošt Nativity Scene, a National Cultural Monument of the Czech Republic. Created by Josef Probošt, Josef Kapucián, and woodcarver Antonín Vítek between 1885 and 1906, the masterpiece features over 2,000 carved wooden parts. The mechanism is driven by an electric motor that powers a complex series of gears and wooden shafts to animate hundreds of figures. The museum building itself is a modern, purpose-built structure designed specifically to house and protect this mechanical artifact. The collection includes over 400 additional nativity scenes from various materials, including wood, paper, and ceramic. The museum serves as the primary center for the research and preservation of Czech nativity-making traditions. Visitors can observe the intricate mechanical movements through a viewing window that shows the inner workings of the display.
The central viewing platform directly in front of the main mechanical nativity display.
Check the museum's official website for potential temporary closures for maintenance of the complex mechanical parts.
Engage with the provided audio-visual materials, as they explain the complicated gear sequences that define the Probošt scene.
Allocate time to view the temporary exhibition area, which frequently features contemporary local woodcarvings.
Do not rush through the mechanical demonstration, as the sequence takes time to complete its full rotation.
Closed on Mondays; open daily Tuesday through Sunday.
Maintain a quiet volume inside the exhibition halls; photography is permitted, but do not touch the displays.
