A Schwibbogen is an arc-shaped wooden candle holder that originated in the Erzgebirge area of Germany.

Modern versions have electrical candles on them and can often be seen in people’s windows.

To hear a simple explanation and a short discussion in German, listen to the podcast:

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Weihnachtskrippe is the name given to a Nativity scene in Germany, often found in town centres during advent. It depicts the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem.

Many families have their own model Weihnachtskrippe at home. Some of these are self-made, others have been collected over a period of time with a new figure being added each year. Typically, these are also passed down through the generations.

Surprisingly, they were banned in churches at the end of the 18th Century.

To hear a simple explanation and a short discussion in German, listen to the podcast:

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