Germany 2020 – Oberammergau
September 13-23, 2021
Oberammergau’s 5,300 inhabitants are located in the beautiful Bavaria Ammer Valley. Every ten years they open their hospitality to international visitors who come for the Passion Play. The inspirational pageant is played out by the villagers amidst the backdrop of the soaring mountains. Join the Reverend Peggy Bryan, Saint Andrew’s Saratoga, to the Oberammergau Passion Play which includes exploring Europe’s beautiful, romantic cities, the old world castles, and follow in the footsteps of this centuries-old tradition.
The Oberammergau Passion Play dates back to a vow made in the year 1634. At that time the Bubonic Plague which swept through the entire region many people died. The survivors of Oberammergau vowed to portray the “Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ” if they would be spared. From that moment not one person succumbed to the Black Death and the Passion Play has been performed every ten years since.
Itinerary
Sunday/Monday, September 13/14, 2020 San Jose to Munich, Germany
After an overnight flight, we arrive in Munich, where we will transfer to the Maritim Hotel for two nights. Enjoy a walk through Munich’s Old Town to the popular square there the Glockenspiel carillon in Marienplatz is seen and heard. Later in the day, we will meet our Tour Director for a welcome dinner.
Tuesday, September 15, 2020 Munich – Neuschwanstein
Today, we have the chance to visit Bavarian farm country and the fairy tale castle, Neuschwanstein Castle, Ludwig II’s 19th century Romanesque Revival palace. Following the hilltop visit, we will stop for lunch and tasty streusel, then its back to Munich, where you can spend the evening exploring.
Wednesday, September 16, 2020 Munich – Oberammergau
Today we continue through Germany’s Bavarian Alps to Oberammergau, the beautifully frescoed village where the Passion Play takes place every ten years.
Thursday, September 17, 2020 Oberammergau, Germany
On the day of the play, the cast of thousands is drawn from all walks of life from within the village. The coveted role of Christ could be the village postman, butcher or school teacher. Men and women grow their hair all year. The cast spends two years rehearsing every detail of the story for a once only performance of a lifetime.
Friday, September 18, 2020 Oberammergau – Salzburg, Austria
Following a drive into Austria, we will stop at the chapel in Oberndorf, where the hymn “Silent Night” was first performed in the 19th century. Later, enjoy a visit to a local brewery for tasting and lunch. In the evening we will check in to the NH Hotel City before an orientation walk through Salzburg’s historic center.
Saturday, September 19, 2020 Salzburg
Today we will see the baroque Salzburg Cathedral and explore the ancient cemetery. In the afternoon there is time to be enjoyed at leisure. Then in the evening is a special dinner concert featuring the work of Salzburg’s favorite son: Mozart; the musicians are in period dress of the day.
Sunday, September 20, 2020 Salzhurg – Hallstatt
After a drive through pristine vistas and experiencing photographic awe, we arrive at the village of Hallstatt, in Austria’s mountainous Salskammergut region. Its 16th century Alpine houses and Gothic Catholic church sit on Lake Hallstatt’s western shore.
Monday, September 21, 2020 Vienna
We’re off through postcard pretty scenery to opulent Vienna; starting with our visit to the Hapsburg Family’s palace, the Schonbrunn Palace. After checking in at our NH Hotel City, we continue with our royal theme on a walk through historic Vienna, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The rest of the evening is free to enjoy dinner on your own.
Tuesday, September 22, 2020 Vienna
Begin the day with a deeper look into the family who created one of Europe’s most dynamic empires: the Habsburg dynasty. Visit the famous opera house, Hofburg Palace, and the Hofburg Treasury. The afternoon is free to enjoy sipping a coffee in the city where Europe’s café scenes were created. Sachre torte, anyone?
Wednesday, September 23, 2020 Vienna – USA
After breakfast transfer to the airport for home or extend your stay in Budapest.