[2] Nativity scenes, common in Christian cultures, originated with Saint Francis of Assisi in the 13th century and quickly spread to Poland.

At times subject-specific puppets or figurines were added to illustrate elements of Polish culture, ranging from historical figures like the winged hussars and Tadeusz Kościuszko, the legendary sorcerer Pan Twardowski and the Dragon of Wawel, to contemporary politicians and artists.

The szopka tradition dates back to the 19th century, when Kraków's craftsmen – masons, woodworkers – began to make them as a seasonal decoration in order to earn extra income during the winter.

Since then, except for the duration of the Second World War, the szopka presentation and tournament has taken place every year on the first Thursday of December, at the Main Market Square, Kraków, next to the Adam Mickiewicz Monument.

The edifice most often used as inspiration for szopka models is St. Mary's Basilica, Kraków with its easily recognizable spires.