Oberammergau, a village full of arts and handicraft, being the village of woodcarvers made Oberammergau world famous before the Passion Play.
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A Play of Life and Death, promised in a moment of mortal threat, so began the history of the
Oberammergau Passion Play in 1633. In the middle of the Thirty Years War, after months of suffering and death from the plague, the Oberammergauers swore an oath that they would perform the
"Play of the Suffering, Death and Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ" every ten years. At Pentecost 1634, they fulfilled their pledge for the first time on a stage they put up in the cemetery above the fresh graves of the plague victims.
Today the village is home of approximately
100 woodcarvers. They do not only religious subjects but a lot more from toys to humoristic portraits. If you are keen on getting to know more about the handicraft of today step into the
Pilatushaus, there craftsmen explain their work and technique and give you a look into the world of arts
Oberammergau offers many pleasures for the visitor, marvellous woodcarvings, impressive buildings, fascinating traditions and a neighbourhood offering some of Bavariaâs most famous castles and churches.
Itâs now more than 200 years ago that people who could afford to had their houses painted by artists, the result of this fashion can be seen today when you have a stroll through
Oberammergau. Dorfstrasse, colourful pictures on pretty facades, something called in Bavaria
Lueftlmalerei. But fortunately this fashion continued even in the 20th century, when the
Haensel und Gretel Haus in Ettaler Strasse was built.
The ski resort at the
Kolben. Especially for families and beginners, offers easy slopes for an affordable price. And if skiing makes you hungry and thirsty, then stop for a rest at one of the cottages or mountain restaurants.
