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Call us on 138 747 (AU), 0800 447 913 (NZ) or contact your local Viking travel advisor | 5 THE PASSION PLAY: A 400-YEAR-OLD PROMISE e Passion Play began during one of the darkest periods in European history. In the early 17th century, the irty Years' War and the bubonic plague devastated communities across Central Europe. For a time, Oberammergau remained protected by strict quarantine. But in 1633, according to local legend, a villager returned home carrying the disease. As the plague spread through the community, the villagers made a solemn vow: if God spared them from further deaths, they would perform a play every ten years depicting the life and suffering of Jesus Christ. Soon after the promise was made, the deaths reportedly ceased. True to their word, the villagers staged the first Passion Play in 1634. For nearly four centuries, their descendants have faithfully continued the tradition. Today, thousands of residents participate in the production—on stage, behind the scenes and throughout the community. Performed in a grand, open air theatre, e Passion Play draws visitors from around the world. The production features elaborate costumes, dramatic staging and live orchestral music, creating a deeply moving experience for audiences. WHY GO WITH VIKING? Viking has been hosting guests at e Passion Play since 2010 and offers reserved seating at every performance. Just as importantly, the Oberammergau stay is combined with some of Viking's most popular river itineraries, including: • Oberammergau with Salzburg, paired with our Danube Waltz itinerary • Oberammergau, Innsbruck & the Rhine, featuring our Rhine Getaway itinerary ese thoughtfully crafted journeys allow guests to experience e Passion Play while also exploring some of Europe's most celebrated cities, cultural landmarks and scenic river landscapes. For many travellers, the Oberammergau Passion Play is more than a performance—it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness a centuries-old tradition that continues to inspire audiences from around the world. OBERAMMERGAU, GERMANY