ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Oberammergau

Oberammergau is a small town in Germany where people have been performing a play called the Passion Play for almost 400 years. The play tells the story of Jesus' last days on Earth including his trial, crucifixion and resurrection.

Every 10 years, the people of Oberammergau put on this special play that lasts for six hours and involves over two thousand actors, performers, and crew members. The actors wear special costumes and the set is designed to look like ancient Jerusalem. This is a really big deal for the town and thousands of people come to see the show from all over the world.

The story of the Passion Play and how it came to be in Oberammergau is very interesting. A long time ago, there was a terrible plague that struck the town and many people died. The townspeople prayed to God for mercy and made a promise that if the plague went away, they would perform a play telling the story of Jesus' last days. The plague did go away and ever since then, the Passion Play has been performed every 10 years as a way of keeping their promise to God.

Overall, Oberammergau and the Passion Play are remarkable examples of the traditions and culture of Germany. People come from far and wide to see the play and experience the history and beauty of this wonderful town.