Holiday in Oberammergau

About Oberammergau

Oberammergau is a municipality in the upper Bavarian district of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, world-famous for the Passion Play that takes place every ten years. The village in the Ammertal, nestled between the Ammergau Alps, is a total work of art made up of Baroque Lüftl painting, wood carving, and a vibrant theater tradition. The Passion Play of Oberammergau has its origins in a plague vow from 1633: The villagers swore to perform the suffering and death of Christ every ten years if God ended the plague. Since then, Oberammergau has kept its promise. Over 2,000 locals participate as actors, singers, and musicians — only native or long-term residents are allowed to take part. Lüftl painting characterizes the entire village: Colorful facade paintings depict biblical scenes, fairy tale motifs, and Bavarian ornamentation. The Pilatushaus and the Hansel-and-Gretel house are among the most beautifully painted buildings in Bavaria. Wood carving has a centuries-old tradition in Oberammergau: Over 100 carvers create intricate nativity scenes, saint figures, and sacred works. The Oberammergau Museum showcases the history of this craft. The Kofel (1,342 m), the local mountain of Oberammergau, offers a challenging mountain tour with a via ferrata and breathtaking panorama. The royal castles of Linderhof (7 km) and Neuschwanstein (30 km) are in close proximity. The Ettal Monastery, one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Bavaria, is only 4 km away.