The Oberammergau Passion Play

A tradition in the Bavarian Alps for nearly four centuries, the famed Passion Play of Oberammergau, Germany, attracts spectators from around the world. A massive undertaking, it is produced only every 10 years. The next Passion Play run is scheduled for 2010, and several tour operators have announced Oberammergau itineraries that include tickets to one of the performances.

The story behind Oberammergau’s Passion Play begins in 1633. Amid the turmoil of the Thirty Years War and the devastating Black Death plague -- which claimed one or more members of nearly every family in Oberammergau -- the townspeople made an oath to perform a play depicting the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ every 10 years. They fulfilled this promise for the first time in 1634.

In 2000, the Passion Play was performed for the 40th time, and now the town is gearing up for the 2010 production. More than 2,000 local actors, singers, musicians and stage technicians work together to produce the lengthy play.

In 2010, the first performance will take place on May 15, and the last on October 3. The Passion Play is presented in two parts: Part one takes place from 2:30 to 5 p.m., and part two takes place from 8 to 10:30 p.m. A meal is served at intermission.

Oberammergau is also treasured for the painted facades of its chalets -- in the 18th century, wealthy residents commissioned these colorful outdoor frescoes for their homes. Oberammergau also has a long tradition of woodcarving, and today the village is home to approximately 100 woodcarvers. Visitors can watch these artisans at work at the Pilatus House.

To search for tours that include the 2010 Oberammergau Passion Play, simply make your selections in the box above and click “Show All Matches.”

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