Viking has launched two new river cruises that will give guests the chance to see the world-renowned Oberammergau Passion Play.
Performed once a decade in the southern Bavarian town of Oberammergau, the Passion Play dates back to the 17th century. Desperate villagers are believed to have made a vow to God in 1633 that they would perform a play depicting the suffering of Christ every ten years if they were spared from the bubonic plague.
After making this promise, deaths from the disease in the German village are said to have miraculously ceased. The vow has been kept for almost 400 years and the five-hour epic will next occur between 14 May and 2 October 2030.
Passengers will have a seat to see the rare performance during Viking river cruises on the Rhine or Danube in 2030.
These include a 13-day “Oberammergau, Innsbruck & the Rhine” river cruise between Amsterdam and Munich and a 12-day “Oberammergau with Salzburg” sailing from Oberammergau to Budapest.
Prices start from £5,795 per person and includes flights, transfers, onboard drinks with meals, tours and wifi, plus tickets to the Passion Play.
Passengers will also have time to explore Bavaria and destinations along the Rhine and Danube rivers.
Leah Talactac, president and chief executive of Viking, said: “Our guests are curious travellers who value meaningful cultural experiences and a deeper understanding of the places they visit.
“We have welcomed guests to the Oberammergau Passion Play for two previous installments and are pleased to introduce these new itineraries for 2030. By pairing this extraordinary event with a Rhine or Danube voyage, guests can explore some of Europe’s most historic destinations while experiencing a tradition that has endured for nearly 400 years.”
Other cruise lines are also including visits to watch the play during 2030 river cruises.
These include AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic, Saga and Uniworld.
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