Passion Plays are being performed in many places of Europe and also in the United States. However,
none are as famous as the Passion Play of Oberammergau, recurring every ten years in this picturesque mountain village, situated in the heart of
the beautiful German Alps.
For more than 360 years, the tradition of the Passion Plays has continued. From its humble beginnings, when it was first performed on one of the village pastures, it has evolved into a multi-million dollar enterprise. It all started with a miracle: the
Black Plague, as so many times before, threatened and terrified the population of Europe. For a long time, Oberammergau seemed to have been spared, but then the terrible disease also began to take its toll amongst the villagers. The inhabitants of Oberammergau made a vow that, henceforth, they would perform the Passion Play of our Lord once every ten years, if they were to be delivered from the scourge of pestilence. Those who were struck soon began to show signs of recovery and only a few people died. Since then, the people of Oberammergau have kept their pledge and the routine of the plays was only interrupted by the two World Wars.
The Passion Playhouse, such as we know it today, was constructed in the beginning of this century with an open-air stage and a covered auditorium seating almost 5,000 spectators. The play's dialogues and music were written by local citizens. Also locally produced are the elaborate stage settings and costumes. More than 1,600 villagers participate in the performance and it is considered a special honor to play one of the lead roles. Only people who were born in Oberammergau and are of good moral standing will be permitted to perform.
Oberammergau is an all-time favorite, not only for the Passion Play season. During winter, there are great possibilities for skiing and for other winter sports, and in summer, the town has become a popular health resort. Another great asset of Oberammergau are its wood carvers who export their products into every corner of the globe.
In addition to the highlight of the Passion Play, breathtakingly beautiful scenery and the friendliness of the local people will make your stay in Oberammergau a most memorable one.
