Oberammergau's Architectural Gem: St. Peter and Paul Church

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Have you ever wondered what makes Oberammergau special beyond its famous Passion Play? Well, there’s more to this charming village, like its unique murals, breathtaking views of the Bavarian Alps, and—yes—a church that truly stands out. It’s name? The Church of St. Peter and Paul.

This isn’t just any ordinary church you’ll find in an alpine region. It’s a stunning example of South German Baroque architecture. As I explored its interiors, I couldn’t help but marvel at the intricate artistic details for minutes, and I’m sure you’ll have the same reaction.

Church Architecture

When you enter the Church of St. Peter and Paul in Oberammergau, you’re welcomed by the breathtaking splendor of late Baroque sacred art. The church is home to one grand main altar and four beautifully crafted side altars, adorned with intricate stucco work by Schmuzer and vibrant frescoes that fill the walls and ceiling.

Interiors

The art and design focus on two key themes: the Passion of Christ and the martyrdom and glorification of Saints Peter and Paul, the church’s patrons. The Rosary is also an important motif here, reflecting the influence of the Brotherhood of the Holy Rosary, founded in Oberammergau in 1648.

At the center of the church is the high altar, a masterpiece by Franz Xaver Schmädl, featuring a painting by Matthäus Günther of the Blessed Virgin Mary as the heavenly intercessor for those who seek her aid through prayer and offerings.

Interestingly, during Easter and the Passion Play season, this image is replaced by a statue of the risen Christ.

The altar is further enriched with statues of Saints Peter and Paul, flanked by Saints Joseph and Joachim, while the Lamb of God, seated on the book with seven seals, graces the top of the Tabernacle.

The two side altars near the choir arch emphasize the mystery of salvation through Christ’s sacrifice.

One altar uniquely depicts the Holy Trinity engaged in a profound “inner conversation” about the redemption of humanity.
The other portrays Christ on the cross—a deeply significant piece, as the cross is said to be the very one before which the people of Oberammergau made their Passion Play vow during the plague of 1633. This altar also includes figures of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. John the Evangelist, St. Mary Magdalene, and St. Dismas, the Good Thief.

In the side extensions, two additional altars continue the narrative of faith. One is dedicated to the Holy Family, with an altarpiece by Günther, and the other honors St. Anthony of Padua, featuring a painting by Johann Jakob Zeiller.

Frescoes

To me, another unmissable highlights of visiting the Church of St. Peter and Paul is its incredible frescoes. These paintings are some of the most stunning you’ll find in the Bavarian Alps, second to the famous ones in Ettal Abbey in my opinion.

The central fresco along the nave of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul in Oberammergau, Germany — The central fresco along the nave of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul

In the choir area, the frescoes focus on the Rosary.

Look up at the dome, and you’ll see a beautiful scene of the Virgin Mary handing the rosary to St. Dominic. On the walls nearby, one fresco shows Christ teaching the Lord’s Prayer, while the other shows Mary receiving the angel’s greeting at the Annunciation.

The central dome is where the breathtaking moments happen. It tells the powerful story of Saints Peter and Paul’s final moments and their triumph in heaven.

You’ll see scenes of their farewell in chains at the Mamertine dungeon, their martyrdom—Peter on the upside-down cross and Paul by the sword—and finally, their entrance into heaven, surrounded by saints from both the Old and New Testaments.

Don’t miss the fresco above the organ gallery, either.

It offers a unique view of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, as if you’re looking up from the Confessio to the Papal Altar, with Bernini’s bronze canopy and Michelangelo’s dome towering above.

More Pictures of the Church

A close up shot of the central fresco of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul in Oberammergau, Germany — A close up shot of the central fresco of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul

The intricate details inside the Chruch of Saint Peter and Paul in Oberammergau, Germany — The intricate details inside the Chruch of Saint Peter and Paul

The high altar of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul in Oberammergau, Germany — The high altar of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul

The spectacular gallery and the organ fresco of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul in Oberammergau, Germany — The spectacular gallery and the organ fresco of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul

Left view of the interiors of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul in Oberammergau, Germany — Left view of the interiors of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul

Right view of the interiors of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul in Oberammergau, Germany — Right view of the interiors of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul

Church Location in Oberammergau

The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul is centrally located in Oberammergau, right on Frühmessergasse. It’s easy to find, situated in the heart of the village, just a short stroll from the train station. To get there, you’ll need to cross the Ammer River via Bahnhofstrasse, which takes about a 10 to 15-minute walk.

Visiting Oberammergau

If you’re planning to visit Oberammergau and want to check out its church during your trip to Bavaria, I’ve put together a quick guide to help you explore the village’s top attractions. In the guide, you’ll find details about the Passion Play, the village’s famous murals called Lüftlmalerei, scenic spots, local crafts, products, and more.

Lastly, if you’re looking for the latest visitor information about the beautiful Church of Oberammergau, you can visit the official website of the Church of St. Peter and Paul (in German).

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Oberammergau’s Architectural Gem: St. Peter and Paul Church