Oberammergau
Gripped by war, poverty and plague, the villagers of Oberammergau, in Bavaria, southern Germany vowed to put on a 'passion play' every ten years… That was back in 1633. They survived, and performed the first Oberammergau Passion Play in 1634. Ever since, their descendants have carried out that pledge. For the past four centuries the tradition has continued, every ten years. Only villagers have been allowed to take part. And that is what will happen yet again in 2010.
Photo: Passion Play Oberammergau 2010 |
Oberammergau - the Passion PlayThe early 1600’s were years of death and despair in Germany. Fifteen years into the devastating and demoralizing Thirty Years’ War, the Black Plague hit with a vengeance. By 1633, death had called on almost every other family in the Bavarian village of Oberammergau. With suffering and death their daily fare, the citizenry of Oberammergau revitalized their pleadings to God with a solemn oath, promising to perform a play depicting the life, suffering and resurrection of Jesus Christ every ten years. Immediately, the people confirmed their oath by erecting a symbol of Christ on poles and crossbars above the village cemetery. At Pentecost the following year, 1634, the first Passion Play at Oberammergau was performed on a stage constructed over the final resting place of the plague victims. With astonishing regularity, the citizens of Oberammergau have continued to perform their oath every ten years.
The perseverance of the village in keeping their promise not only hastened the end of the plague in their village, but in more modern times, has distinguished the village of Oberammergau as one of historic importance among world travelers - both Christian and non-Christian alike. The opportunity to see this outstanding performance Don’t miss out – pre-book your seats today to be guaranteed the best seats in the house! Book now for great savings!
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