The Slovak Bethlehem
"Slovensky Betlehem" at Rajecka Lesna, Slovakia
Photos by Roman & Alice 2003 - Updated 2014
(Alice 1919-2009)
My brief notes & images
provide a quick digest of sculptured themes.
The sculpted figures move on tracks showing daily life & work
***You must view the link on the bottom of the page for the animation***
Click images for full view credits | |
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This building houses the Slovak Bethlehem, a sculptural panorama, with moving wooden figures representing the trades and culture of Slovakia. This cultural tradition includes a Bethlehem scene that remains, to this day, an important cultural practice represented in the Folk art of Slovakia. |
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VIDEO BELOW SHOWS ANIMATION
Click here for Google map site area:
In September 2003, Alice and I visited
sites in Eastern Slovakia where my grandparents were born. Martin
Sperka, from the University in Bratislava traveled with us and led us to
interesting monuments along the way. Returning to Bratislava via the
High Tatras we came upon signs leading us to this interesting site. We
were impressed with the charm of the panoramic presentation. It
demonstrates that patience, skill and inventive imagination can,
over a period of time, achieve remarkably engaging work. Using digital
photos from our trip I made this web page with encouragement and
critical help from Alice. Roman Verostko, Minneapolis 2003