The Oberammergau Passion Play was first performed in 1634 and is the result
of a vow made by the inhabitants of the village that if God spared them
from the effects of the bubonic plague then sweeping the region they would
perform a passion play every ten years. The play is now performed in years
ending with a zero, except 1984 which was the 350th anniversary, and involves
over 2000 actors, singers, instrumentalists and technicians, all residents
of the village.
The Passion Play brings the story of Jesus of Nazareth to the ears and
eyes of the audience in a five-hour presentation on the imposing open-air
stage. Almost half of the inhabitants of Oberammergau enact with great devotion
the story of Jesus whose message gives billions of people hope and strength.
The play covers the period of Jesus entering Jerusalem and continues up
to his death on the Cross-and his resurrection.
The village is also known as the home of a long tradition of woodcarving.
The streets of central Oberammergau are home to dozens of woodcarver shops,
with pieces ranging from religious subjects, to toys, to humoristic portraits.
Oberammergau is also famous for its "Lüftlmalerei," or frescoes,
of traditional Bavarian themes, fairy tales, or religious scenes found on
many homes and buildings. Lüftlmalerei is common Upper Bavaria and
its name may be derived from an Oberammergau house called Zum Lüftl,
which was the home of facade painter Franz Seraph Zwinck (1748–1792).
In 2010 the village will perform the play for the 41st time, maintaining
the continuity of this unique world famous event.
In 2010 the performance will, for the first time, begin in the aftermoon and the
seccond part will be performed in the evening hours. For 2010, the Oberammergau
people will maintain the traditions that have kept the play valid for 376 years,
making it a brilliant cultural and religious event.
The Passion Play village of Oberammergau is situated in
one of Bavaria's most beautiful areas, nestling in the wonderful
landscape of the Ammergau Alps. It is not only the beauty
of the landscape but also cultural treasures that await the
visitor.
This region represents the unique connection of an unspoiled
world of scenic beauty, cultural treasures and an area with
historical sites. Among them is Linderhof Castle, the favourite
castle of King Ludwig II. Also not too far is another of Ludwig's
residences is the world famous castle of Neuschwanstein. The
landscape is ideal for Bicycle and Hiking enthusiasts.
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Witness
interview featuring Michael Dyckerhoff Passion Play, Oberammergau
