Oberammergau: A Bavarian Gem
Bavaria is one of the federal states of Germany and is located in the southeast corner of this European country. It is characterized by its amazing Alpine forests and mountain sceneries. It is a corner of the world that is wonderful to see and travel through. Oberammergau is a little town within Bavaria, and it has a lot to offer travelers.
Culinary Delights
Adding a culinary aspect to your trip is a fantastic idea! Despite its small size, there is a wonderful culinary scene that booms here. From the Hotel Maximillian that is known for its German traditional meal to El Puente restaurant that serves authentic Mexican food (yes authentic Mexican in the middle of Bavaria). There is also a functioning monastery in the nearby town of Ettal that still maintains a functioning brewery. Then there are the wonderful biergartens (who doesn’t want to tour an authentic brewery in Germany?).
The Stunning Scenery
Oberammergau sits in the shadow of Kofel Mountain and also sits near the Ammer River. It is a land that is perfect for hiking, camping, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities. The 18th-century architecture of this little Bavarian town gives visitors a feeling of stepping back to simpler times. One of the great things to check out here are the local artisan shops to see traditional trades that flourish there.
The Passion Play
This town’s claim to fame lies in its Passion Play. Beginning in 1643, every 10 years, the town of Oberammergau takes on a reenactment of the trial, torture, and crucifixion of Jesus, known as the Passion of Christ. It was started as a way for the people of Bavaria to give thanks for their deliverance from the Black Plague that struck Europe in the 17th century. The play has only been canceled twice in its history - in 1770 the Roman Catholic church asked that it not be performed, and again in 1940 due to World War II. This is something that all of the locals become involved in and they take very seriously. According to Frederik Mayet, an Oberammergau native who will play Jesus in 2020, “People really have it in their DNA." The preparation for this play began on Ash Wednesday of 2019 and starting on that day, men began to grow their hair and beards out for next year's play. Actors have been chosen and the rehearsals have begun!
There is much to see in this fantastic corner of Germany. If you plan on taking a trip to Bavaria, 2020 may be a good time to look into going there. Updated 3/22/2020 - The Passion Play has been Rescheduled for 2022 due to the coronavirus pandemic of 2020. The town of Oberammergau is going to be all hustle and bustle during their Passion Play. The Bavarian Alps are a wonderful place anytime and there is beauty everywhere you look. German hospitality and history are alive and well in Bavaria.
Get in touch today to secure your seat; as this is a sought-after event with limited capacity.
Erin Smith ~ Affinity Group Travel Advisor