František Štěpán spent 40 years constructing the nativity scene, working primarily during winter months when weaving was not possible.
The mechanism includes figures depicting professions now largely extinct, such as blacksmiths, millers, and woodcutters.
The entire system of gears and levers is made of wood and metal, engineered by a self-taught craftsman.
The scene is housed within the original family building where Štěpán lived and worked.
The collection features not only religious figures but also musicians playing instruments, which provides insight into local folk music traditions.
The Ruchoma Szopka w Czermnej is a historic mechanical nativity scene located in a private home in the Czermna district of Kudowa-Zdrój. Created by František Štěpán, a local weaver, the wooden figures were carved by hand between 1896 and 1936. The exhibition features approximately 250 moving figures powered by a single motor that replaced the original hand-cranked mechanism. The display combines biblical scenes with depictions of traditional regional crafts and daily life in the Sudetes mountains. Visitors operate the mechanism via a switch to view the full cycle of the figures' movements. The site is a documented example of folk art and mechanical engineering from the turn of the 20th century. It remains in its original setting, preserved by the descendants of the creator.
Position your camera near the front glass display to capture the depth of the multi-layered mechanical scene.
The exhibition space is small and narrow; avoid visiting in large groups to ensure everyone can see the figures.
Ask the caretaker for details about the maintenance of the vintage gear system; they are often happy to explain the history.
There is little space for parking directly in front of the building, so prepare for a short walk from the street parking areas.
Do not attempt to touch the figures or the wooden mechanisms as they are fragile and aged.
Occasionally closed for maintenance or during off-peak winter months; it is recommended to verify local signage before arrival.
