The Pilate House

The Pilatushaus (Pilate's House) on Verlegergasse, Oberammergau is a superb example of Luftmalerei (fresco work). The exquisite designs and skilful trompe l'oeil depicting illusory balconies, balustrades and columns along with scenes of the resurrection of Christ, were created by the acknowledged local painter Franz Seraph Zwinck who lived 1748-92.

On the ground floor of the Pilatushaus is a workshop where craftsmen and women take turns producing and demonstrating traditional handcrafts using skills that have been used for hundreds of years. Examples of their work can also be purchased in the shop. In days gone by itinerant traders would have taken their goods and sold them throughout Europe, thus spreading the fame of the Oberammergau workers.