Oberammergau Passion Play 2030, St. Anton and the Austrian Tyrol
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Oberammergau ©Copyright by Gemeinde Oberammergau
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©Copyright by Gemeinde Oberammergau
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St Anton
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Green City Experiences - Colourful row of houses on the banks of Inn river in Innsbruck ©Oesterreich Werbung, Photographer Sebastian Burziwal
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Lake Constance ©Internationale Bodensee Tourismus GmbH_Fotograf Achim Mende
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Every 10 years, in the village of Oberammergau in Southern Germany (Bavaria), the Passion Play is traditionally held. The 43rd Oberammergau Passion Play will be performed again in the summer of 2030.
History of the Obergammergau Passion Play
In 1633, when the small Bavarian village of Oberammergau was in the grip of the plague, its inhabitants vowed that if they were spared, they would in future perform every ten years a Passion Play depicting Christ’s bitter suffering.
In 1634 the villagers fulfilled their solemn promise for the first time, and for hundreds of years since then, despite dangers and threats, they have loyally kept their vow. Pilgrims from all over the world are captivated by the Play, which is not only a testimony of religious faith but also an outstanding cultural event. Read more
Although the text and music have been adapted many times over the years, the traditional concept has remained intact. With inner conviction the amateur actors, all local people, represent time and again the life and sufferings of Our Lord.
The last major changes to the text of the Passion Play were made between 1850 and 1860 by
the parish priest of Oberammergau, Alois Daisenberger, building on the work of Father Othmar Weis. The structure of the Play, with its living pictures from the Old Testament and acted scenes from the New Testament, has been retained to this day.
The music for the Play was composed in the early 19th century by the Oberammergau school teacher, Rochus Dedler. Revised and extended in 1950 by Professor Eugen Papst, it employs a large choir and orchestra and frames the entire spectacle.
The Play shows the story of Christ’s Passion, beginning with the entry into Jerusalem and ending with the Resurrection and Transfiguration.
The Play
Over 2000 participants bring the story of Jesus of Nazareth in a 5 hour presentation on an impressive stage in a theatre capable of accommodating several thousand spectators. Although the text and music have been adapted many times over the years, the traditional concept has remained intact and the play is in German (English translation was a manual in 2022- not known yet for 2030???). The actors are all villagers of Oberammergau who prepare for their roles for years in order to give an authentic portrayal of the last days in the life of Jesus.
The performance usually takes place during the afternoon and evening with a break for dinner. Lunch arrangements and transport around the village are included in the package, making the whole day a relaxing as well as an uplifting experience.
The Theatre
The Passion Play theatre is now a listed building and the stage has been remodelled and brought in line with state-of-the-art technology with some 4700 seats in the auditorium which is covered by an innovative wrought-iron lattice roof that ensures good views from every one of the tiered row seats offering a magnificent mountain background. There is under-floor heating, modern toilet facilities and is barrier-free.
Greatdays have operated many successful individual and group tours to Oberammergau Passion Plays in 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2022 (2020 was postoned due to COVID). Our experienced teams of travel consultants will be pleased to help with your enquiry, any questions or customised travel programmes in Europe and the UK.
Dates
May - October 2030 (dates to be confirmed)
Suggested 9 day Itinerary by Coach
Day 1
Depart the UK
Drive to Dover and take the short sea ferry crossing to France. Continue through France and into Belgium making an overnight stop in the Namur area. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.
Day 2
Travel to Oberammergau
We will depart after breakfast and continue the journey through Belgium and into Germany, making comfort stops en-route before arriving at our hotel in the Oberammergau region for the next 2 nights. After check-in there may be some time to explore the village before dinner together.
Day 3
Oberammergau Passion Play
After breakfast, we will have a full day in Oberammergau. In the morning there will be the option to visit the Passion Play theatre for an introduction talk by one of the cast members to learn about the production of the Passion Play. After this, there will be free time to explore this picturesque village with the beautifully painted houses, shops and buildings, as well as the Rococo church and many wood-carving shops.
Lunch will be included in one of the local restaurants before we take our seats for the first half of the Passion Play performance which is followed by a 3-hour interval during which time we will enjoy a 3-course dinner with drinks before the second half commences.
At the end of the play, which is around 10.00pm, we return to the hotel.
Day 4
Travel to the Austrian Tyrol
Say goodbye to Oberammergau as we leave after breakfast for a visit of the amazing fairy-tale palace of Linderhof which will include entrance and a short guided tour. Renovated in the style of a 19th century French Chateau by the eccentric King Ludwig II, this spectacular Baroque building is known as Little Versailles. The interior features lavish furnishings and decorations. Outside, beautiful fountains, lawns and symmetric gardens and flower arrangements form a stunning landscape.
After the visit we will continue to the nearby village of Ettal for free time and lunch. Optional visit for prayer or contemplation maybe possible at the spectacular Ettal Abbey founded in 1330 and restored in the Baroque style in the 18th century. The monastic buildings include a basilica, monastery, school, restaurant, shop and brewery.
From here, we will continue the journey over the alps into Austria, making a brief stop in Telfs to see the ‘Peace Bell’ weighing in at 10,450 kilos and commemorates the founding of the ‘Working Community of Alpine Countries’ in 1973 and was cast by the Grassmayr bell foundry in Innsbruck which we will visit during our stay in Austria. (Coach parking nearby and short easy walk to the bell)
Continue to St. Anton for the next 4 nights. After check-in there may be time to explore the local surroundings before enjoying dinner together this evening.
Note: All hotel guests will be given a FREE ‘Summer Card’ which gives free/reduced rates on local transport and some activities and attractions in the town such as admission to the St. Anton Museum, entry to the Gand Exhibition Mine, entry to the Tyrolean Evening and much more.
For those who wish to partake in a Mass or Church Service in St. Anton – the hotel will be happy to provide information.
Day 5
St. Anton at leisure and Tyrolean Evening (subject to show schedules for 2030)
Today will be spent at leisure in St. Anton exploring the town, relaxing, sightseeing or shopping. Make use of your free ‘St. Anton Summer Card’ which is valid for free local transport and discounts on many activities in the region including a ride on the cable-car up into the mountains for more spectacular views of the region.
After dinner at the hotel, enjoy a traditional Tyrolean Evening held in the local square with the folk group d’Arlberger. Experience authentic customs, traditional music and dancing during this unforgettable 2 hour show. (Usually Tuesdays or Wednesdays/May-September subject to confirmation for 2030. Itinerary for St. Anton will be adjusted accordingly depending upon show schedules).
Day 6
Stams Abbey and Innsbruck
After breakfast we will depart by coach for a visit of Stams Abbey, a magnificent baroque monastery with an orangery, shop and cafe. At the centre of the monastery is the collegiate church, a basilica since 1984, a crypt, a magnificent pulpit, impressive vault and wall paintings, and the Tree of Life altar, a sacred work of art and a centrepiece of Tyrolean culture.
From here continue to Innsbruck, the ‘Capital of the Tyrol’. With a spectacular backdrop of snow-capped mountains, Innsbruck offers a picture-book old town full of historical buildings that includes the Imperial Palace and the famous ‘Goldenes Dachl’ (Golden Roof), the symbol of the city.
On a guided walking tour of the old town, we will also visit the family-run Grassmayr bell foundry, where the Peace Bell in Telfs was cast. The foundry has been casting bells for over 400 years. In the casting-hall see the old wood-burning furnace which is still used today and watch the casters at work in the modern and colourful bell foundry.
After the visit and tour there will be time to explore further. Maybe make a visit of Innsbruck Cathedral which towers majestically over the roofs of Innsbruck and part of one of the most important medieval Christian pilgrimage routes – the Way of St. James. The highlight is the “Maria Hilf” painting – a masterpiece that has become the most popular image of the Madonna and Child in the Alps. It is also home to the “Mariahilferglocke” – the second largest bell in Tyrol, which was cast at the historic Grassmayr Bell Foundry.
Return to St. Anton for dinner and evening at leisure.
Day 7
Bregenz, Lindau and Lake Constance Cruise
Lake Constance is one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in central Europe, sitting at the meeting point of Austria, Germany and Switzerland. Our first stop is Bregenz, the oldest town on the lake, which offers a famous floating theatre. After some free time we will continue to Lindau, the ‘town on the island’. Here, centuries-old buildings and picturesque alleyways lead to a beautiful lakeside promenade guarded by a lighthouse and sculptures of two Bavarian lions.
After some free time for lunch we will embark on a leisurely round trip cruise on Lake Constance (Bodensee) from Lindau, which will highlight the surrounding alps, villages and stunning scenery.
Return to the hotel for dinner and an evening at leisure.
Day 8
Depart Austria
Depart after breakfast for the homeward journey, stopping once again Belgium for an overnight stay. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.
Day 9
Return to the UK
Continue after breakfast and to your chosen ferry port for the short sea crossing to the UK
Optional extra day
Medieval Feldkirch, Leichtenstein and Vaduz
A leisurely drive along the scenic Arlberg Pass to the medieval town of Feldkirch. There will be time to explore the well-preserved old town and maybe visit the imposing Schattenburg Castle built in 1260 (entrance payable locally). Continue to Vaduz, capital of the tiny principality of Leichtenstein overlooked by the 700-year old Vaduz Castle, the palace and official residence of the Prince of Leichtenstein. Enjoy a 35 minute city tour by tourist train around the historical part of old Vaduz, past vineyards including a stop below the famous Red House which is an ideal spot to take a picture of the panoramic view of Vaduz Castle. The tour continues through the magnificent,green countryside and past the “Rheinpark Stadium”, Liechtenstein’s main sports stadium. (Optional walking tours available – please ask for details). After some free time, return to St. Anton for dinner and evening at leisure.
4* Sporthotel, St. Anton
Highly recommended hotel located in the pedestrianised area of St. Anton. Lovely indoor swimming pool. Three restaurants including a café with terrace and a piano bar. Ample free coach parking nearby. Tea and coffee is included with evening meals.
4* Hotel Grieshof, St. Anton
Located in the centre of St. Anton, Hotel Grieshof is only steps away from the region’s cable cars. The spa area includes an indoor pool, a steam bath, a hot tub, an infrared cabin and a sauna. All traditionally decorated rooms are spacious and feature cable TV and a seating area. The bathrooms are equipped with bathrobes, slippers and a hairdryer. Free Wi-Fi is available. Guests can enjoy the comfortable atmosphere of the Grieshof’s bar with its open fire place. The restaurant serves traditional local cuisine and half board includes a 4-course dinner.
| Departure date | Price per person | Single supplement |
| May-October 2030 | Price on request | Price on request |
