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The Pilgrim's Guide to Oberammergau and its Passion Play

Cormac McCarthy

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Every ten years, the small Bavarian village of Oberammergau transforms itself into a stage for one of the most extraordinary religious events in the world: the Passion Play. This epic drama, depicting the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, has been performed by the villagers of Oberammergau since the 17th century, and has become a pilgrimage destination for millions of people over the years.

A Pilgrim's Guide to Oberammergau and Its Passion Play

by Raymond Goodburn

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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If you're planning to make the pilgrimage to Oberammergau for the Passion Play, here's everything you need to know:

History of the Passion Play

The origins of the Oberammergau Passion Play can be traced back to 1633, when the village was ravaged by the plague. In a desperate attempt to appease God, the villagers vowed to stage a play about the Passion of Christ every ten years if they were spared from further suffering. Miraculously, the plague ended soon after, and the villagers have kept their vow ever since.

The first Passion Play was performed in 1634, and it has been staged every ten years since then, with only a few exceptions during wartime. Over the centuries, the play has grown in size and scope, and it now features a cast of over 1,000 actors and musicians from the Oberammergau community.

Traditions of the Passion Play

The Oberammergau Passion Play is a unique and deeply moving experience. The play is performed in the open-air Passion Play Theatre, which was built specifically for the event. The stage is massive, and the sets are elaborate and realistic. The costumes are historically accurate, and the music is stirring.

The play itself is divided into two parts. The first part tells the story of Jesus' life and ministry, from his birth to his entry into Jerusalem. The second part depicts the events of Holy Week, from the Last Supper to the Resurrection. The play is performed in German, but there are English subtitles available.

In addition to the play, there are a number of other traditions associated with the Oberammergau Passion Play. For example, the villagers of Oberammergau grow their hair and beards long in preparation for the play. They also wear traditional Bavarian clothing during the performances.

Planning Your Pilgrimage

If you're planning to make the pilgrimage to Oberammergau for the Passion Play, it's important to start planning early. The play is only performed once every ten years, and tickets are in high demand. It's also important to keep in mind that Oberammergau is a small village, and accommodations can be limited during the Passion Play season.

Here are some tips for planning your pilgrimage:

Book your tickets as early as possible. Tickets go on sale about two years before the Passion Play, and they can sell out quickly.
Book your accommodation well in advance. Oberammergau is a small village, and there are limited accommodations available during the Passion Play season.
Consider purchasing a Passion Play package. These packages typically include tickets to the play, accommodations, and other amenities.
Plan your travel carefully. Oberammergau is located in the Bavarian Alps, and it can be difficult to get to by public transportation. It's best to book your flights and train tickets well in advance.
Allow plenty of time for your pilgrimage. The Passion Play is a long and immersive experience, and it's important to allow yourself enough time to fully appreciate it.

The Oberammergau Passion Play is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It's a powerful and moving drama that will stay with you long after you've returned home. If you're planning to make the pilgrimage to Oberammergau, be sure to start planning early and allow yourself plenty of time to fully appreciate this extraordinary event.

A Pilgrim's Guide to Oberammergau and Its Passion Play

by Raymond Goodburn

4.6 out of 5