The Ammergau Alps are rich in historical places and buildings that tell history and stories. There is also a great cultural program that ranges from centuries-old traditional events to professional productions in the Passion Theater. Experience the cultural highlights during your vacation in Bavaria and let the different stories take effect on you.
Customs & Tradition
Oberammergau Passion Play
The Passion Play in Oberammergau is based on a vow that, made in times of extreme need, is continually fulfilled every 10 years on the open-air round stage of the Passion Theater. For over 350 years, the people of Oberammergau have been committed and proud to fulfill their promise to perform the play of Christ's suffering and death. After the Oberammergauers in 1633 Passion vows had handed in, they were Oberammergau Passion Play First performed in 1634. Over 40 more seasons followed continuously.
Old craft
Craftsmanship has a long tradition in the Ammergau Alps: Oberammergau wood carvings, like the Unterammergau whetstones, were sold internationally centuries ago. Lüftl paintings on the facades of houses were a status symbol at the time and still adorn the region today. And charcoal production was so central to the town that it is even reflected in the name of Bad Kohlgrub.
King Ludwig's birthday
Oberammergau: The King Ludwig fires are traditional mountain fires that are lit annually on August 24th, the eve of the birthday, on the peaks around Oberammergau. At the A burning royal crown is even erected on the local mountain, Kofel.
Linderhof Castle: On the evening of August 25th, the celebration will take place with music and atmospheric lighting in the fairytale king's favorite castle and in the castle park.
Leonhardi ride
The Leonhardiritt is a tradition in honor of Saint Leonard, the patron saint of animals and farmers. The custom arose from a request for protection for horses and prosperity for agriculture.
Annually move on the last Sunday in October festively decorated riders and teams in a solemn procession from Unterammergau to the horse blessing at the Kappelkirche.
Star tour & star singing
Every year on New Year's Eve, locals and guests, accompanied by singers and musicians, parade through Oberammergau and Ettal with a large illuminated star.
The year ends in an atmospheric and contemplative way with star singing.