Seifert, Švejk, and Cimrman: Žižkov nativity scene pays tribute to its famous “natives”

A unique nativity scene is currently on display in the Prague district of Žižkov. Alongside the traditional Biblical figures, it features notable Žižkov personalities, including Jaroslav Hašek, the celebrated author of Švejk, and Jára Cimrman, a beloved fictional character. Each year, a new figure is added, keeping the display fresh and connected to Žižkov’s history.

Žižkov nativity scene|Photo: Hana Řeháková, Radio Prague International

The Žižkov nativity scene, showcased at the information centre on Jiřího z Poděbrad Square, was conceived by the Prague 3 Town Hall around a decade ago. It was brought to life by artist Richard Pešek in collaboration with students from the local Secondary School of Arts and Crafts and was first unveiled in 2018.

Michal Vronský, the current mayor of Prague 3, explains how the tradition of adding a new figure each year began:

“When I became mayor, the nativity scene was considered complete, and the artist was initially reluctant to add more figures. However, I thought it would be wonderful to introduce a new character annually. This way, it becomes a ritual for families to visit the information centre together and see the nativity scene with its latest addition.”

Michal Vronský|Photo: Anaïs Raimbault, Radio Prague International

The scene not only honours the “founders” of Žižkov, instrumental in its promotion to city status in 1881, but also celebrates prominent artists and writers who lived in the area or immortalized it in their works.

Initially, the display included only the Holy Family and the three kings. Over time, it expanded to include figures such as the first mayor of Žižkov, Karel Hartig, Emperor Franz Josef I, President Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, musician Jaroslav Ježek, writers Jaroslav Hašek and Jaroslav Seifert, and painter Toyen.

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The display also features quintessential Žižkov figures, such as an accordion player, a butcher, and a gossip, as well as fictional characters like Josef Švejk, Jára Cimrman, and Pérák—the mysterious spring-heeled Nazi fighter known as Springman of Prague.

Artist Richard Pešek adds more:

“The Perák figure feels really significant to me. It's no coincidence that it looks to the right—it symbolizes the rise of Nazism. We tend to idealize the First Republic and we often forget how close both the First and the Second World Wars were. It makes me appreciate living in today's times.”

Figurine of Přemysl Pitter in the Žižkov nativity scene|Photo: Anaïs Raimbault, Radio Prague International

This year’s addition to the nativity scene is Přemysl Pitter, a Czech pacifist renowned for establishing children’s homes to care for disadvantaged and refugee children before, during, and after World War II. Although born in the district of Smíchov, Pitter’s life was deeply intertwined with Žižkov, as art historian Vlaďka Holzapfelová explains:

“His story is comparable to that of Nicolas Winton. It’s a tale of incredible heroism and unwavering determination to do good. In every era, especially during Advent, we need to recall such stories of human kindness and bravery, to remind ourselves of the goodness in people.”

The unique Žižkov nativity scene is on display at the information centre on Jiřího z Poděbrad Square until the end of January.

Photo: Hana Řeháková, Radio Prague International