This Happens Once Every Decade

Every 10 years, the small Bavarian town of Oberammergau transforms itself from a small, quaint town of 5300 residents to a host of over 500,000 visitors between mid May and early October.  According to historical records, the residents of Oberammergau have performed the Passion of the Christ, depicting  his trial, his suffering and his death, every decade since 1634.  The next performance will be held in 2020.

So why am I bringing this up over two years away?  Because if you enjoy faith based travel experiences and this Passion Play is on your "must see" list, you need to start planning for this trip - NOW!  

You see, a large number of tickets are scooped up by travel companies, and some of their itineraries that include the Passion Play are already sold out.  Yes, sold out!  Crazy early I know, but with visitors coming from all around the world combined with popularity and it happening only once every ten years,  availability sells out quickly.  Individual tickets can also be hard  to come by.  

Photo courtesy of Collette

This Passion Play has interesting history.  In 1633, a large part of Europe, including the Oberammergau area, was suffering a lot of death from the plague.  Villagers promised God they would perform this play every 10 years if their lives were spared.  God answered their prayers - not a single family member died after that.  The first play started in 1634 and has been performed ever since.  

What is truly amazing is that to perform in the play, one must be a resident of Oberammergau.   The play has over 2000 participants and the town only has 5300 residents.  Incredible dedication.  

The play may be the primary reason to travel to Oberammergau, but the surrounding sites and natural beauty will keep you there for  a few extra days. 

Oberammergau, a short distance from Munich,  is also near the ski town of  Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Fussen, home of the the beautiful Linderhof Palace and the fairytale  site of Neuschwanstein.  Innsbruck, Austria is also close by, as are the Italian Dolomite mountains.  

No need to stop there.  A number of travel companies have designed exceptional packages that combine a stay in the Oberammergau region with visits to Austria, Switzerland, Germany and Italy.  A Rhine or Danube river cruise is an option as well.  

Check out a couple of  itineraries:
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Germany - Switzerland - Austria                                Alps and the Dolomites

The next Passion Play in Oberammergau will be in 2030.  Why wait?  You never know what tomorrow will bring, so make your travel plans sooner than later.  
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For more information on the Passion Play or other travel options,
​call Lakama Travel (602.540.7338) or use our information request form and we will get back to you as quickly as possible . ​