OUR HISTORY
When Josef Bischof built the Old World Village, he and his wife Dolores Bischof thought long and hard on what they wanted this quaint village to resemble. They decided to build it after a village in Bavaria called, Oberammergau. Oberammergau is a small village located in the Bavarian Alps of Germany. Its history dates back over 1,000 years, and it is most famous for its world-renowned Passion Play.
The origins of Oberammergau can be traced back to the 12th century when it was settled by monks. The village grew over the centuries, and by the 17th century, it had become known for its wood carving industry. The local craftsmen developed a reputation for their intricate and beautiful woodwork, which included religious statues, and other decorative pieces.
In 1633, during the height of the Thirty Years’ War, Oberammergau was hit hard by the bubonic plague. The villagers made a vow to God that if their village was spared from further devastation, they would perform a Passion Play every ten years. Miraculously, the plague ceased, and the villagers fulfilled their promise by putting on the first Passion Play in 1634. Since then, the Oberammergau Passion Play has been performed every ten years, attracting visitors from all over the world. The play depicts the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and involves hundreds of local actors, musicians, and stagehands. It has become a significant cultural event and a cornerstone of the village’s identity. The city has persevered, and today it remains a cherished tradition that showcases the village’s rich history and cultural heritage.
In addition to the Passion Play, Oberammergau is also known for its charming Alpine scenery, traditional Bavarian architecture, and outdoor recreational activities. It has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors who come to experience the unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that the village offers. Oberammergau’s history is intertwined with its Passion Play, and both have left a lasting impact on the village and its inhabitants. The play continues to be a source of pride and unity for the community, ensuring that Oberammergau’s history will be preserved and celebrated for generations to come.
While Oberammergau and the Old World Village in Huntington Beach are both known for their unique charm and cultural heritage, there are some similarities between them:
Traditional Architecture:
Both feature traditional architectural styles that reflect their respective cultural backgrounds. Oberammergau showcases Bavarian Alpine architecture with its characteristic wooden houses adorned with intricate woodcarvings or murals. Similarly, the Old World Village in Huntington Beach emulates a German-style village with half-timbered buildings, cobblestone streets, and decorative elements reminiscent of traditional German architecture and hand painted murals by Monty Baum an artist from Germany who depicted 18 European Fresco’s on the 50 buildings in Old World .
Cultural Events and Festivals:
Both locations host cultural events and festivals that celebrate their heritage. Oberammergau is renowned for its Passion Play, a theatrical performance depicting the life of Jesus Christ, which has been performed every ten years since the 17th century. The Old World Village in Huntington Beach also holds various events throughout the year, such as Oktoberfest, Christmas markets, and cultural music and dance performances, to showcase German traditions and customs and most notably the International Nativity Play which combines Christianity & the celebration of Christmas and the birth of Christ from all around the world.
Craftsmanship and Artistry:
Both places have a history of skilled craftsmanship and artistry. Oberammergau is famous for its woodcarving industry, with local artisans creating intricate religious statues and other wooden crafts. Similarly, the Old World Village in Huntington Beach features shops and galleries that showcase German crafts, such as handcrafted cuckoo clocks, beer steins, and traditional clothing.
Tourist Attractions:
Both locations attract visitors who are interested in experiencing a taste of the old world. Oberammergau’s scenic beauty and historical significance, along with the Passion Play, draw tourists from around the globe. The Old World Village in Huntington Beach offers a unique shopping and dining experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a German-inspired atmosphere without leaving California. While Oberammergau has a long-standing history and cultural significance, the Old World Village in Huntington Beach recreates the charm and ambiance of a traditional German village. Both places provide an opportunity to experience the Old World charm and traditions in different settings, making them popular destinations for tourists and locals alike.