Nativity Scene 'Slovak Betlehem' in Rajecká Lesná

The village became famous for the unique wood-carving work - the biggest mobile Nativity scene in Slovakia called 'Slovak Betlehem' which is exhibited in the House of Gods Nativity.

The whole Rajecká kotlina basin has been the centre of artisans since the medieval time. They were mostly working in wood and made their living from wood carving putting into their work experience obtained during centuries. The unique and enormous picture of Nativity carved in wood is one of the existing proofs in Rajecká Lesná. Its author Jozef Pekara took 15 years to make it! Its dimensions are 8.5x3x2.5 m (9.3x3.28x2.73 yd). It contains a number of Biblical figures and the copies of the most typical and famous building structures of Slovakia.

Several specimens of timber houses with shingle roofs and timber granaries plastered with clay existing in Rajecká Lesná are interesting examples of popular architecture. Rajecká Lesná is also a pilgrim village.

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Voluntary payment upon entry.