Bavaria, a free state in southern Germany with Munich, its regional capital, and its picture-perfect countryside, depicts a harmonious blend of traditional and modern, that of the proverbially laid-back Bavarian. The region's sparkling lakes, national parks and nature conservation areas, as well as countless medieval castles, magnificent palaces and baroque churches provide the perfect setting for travel, featuring a refreshing attitude to life that is its hallmark.

The roots of Oberammergau's wood carvings go back to the Middle Ages. A manuscript dated 1111 first mentioned Rottenbucher monks who brought "…the Ammergau art of carving small household goods out of wood..." to the area of Berchtesgaden. The carving of religious figures most probably has its origins in the pilgrimage to Ettal.