Altötting panorama building

The Altötting panorama building, known locally as Panorama Kreuzigung Christi, stands as a testament to the artistic and historical richness of Altötting, Bavaria. This unique structure houses a monumental panoramic painting that captivates visitors with its immersive depiction of a pivotal moment in religious history. As the only original religious panorama in Europe, it holds a special place in the cultural and spiritual landscape of the region.

The History of the Altötting Panorama Building

Constructed in 1903, the Altötting panorama building was the brainchild of the visionary artist Gebhard Fugel. Unlike typical commissioned works, Fugel and his team embarked on this ambitious project independently, driven by a passion to bring the story of the crucifixion to life through the medium of panoramistic historienmalerei. This form of painting aims to persuade viewers of the historical truth of its subject matter, meticulously reconstructing scenes based on historical texts and archaeological insights.

To create an authentic representation, the artists drew from a range of sources, including the four Gospels and the writings of the Jewish-Roman historian Flavius Josephus. In 1902, artist Josef Krieger traveled to the Holy Land for topographical studies, ensuring that the depiction of Jerusalem and its surroundings was as accurate as possible.

Exploring the Panorama Building

Approaching the Altötting panorama building, visitors are greeted by its distinctive architecture. The structure is designed as a monumental central building, echoing the style of the original panorama constructions developed in England. With a height of 15 meters and a diameter of 30 meters, the building features a timber-framed construction reminiscent of a tent, complete with a central mast supporting the roof. The exterior, with its plastered brick infill, is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, setting the stage for the wonders within.

Inside, the panoramic painting stretches a staggering 95 meters in circumference and 12 meters in height. Composed of 27 fabric panels meticulously stitched together, the artwork envelops viewers in a 360-degree vista of ancient Jerusalem. As visitors stand on a central platform, they are transported back to the year 33, witnessing the dramatic events surrounding the crucifixion of Christ.

The Panoramic Experience

The experience within the Altötting panorama building is nothing short of breathtaking. The scene begins with a view of the ancient city, encircled by formidable walls and shrouded in the ominous gloom of an impending storm. The eye is drawn to significant landmarks, such as the Praetorium, where Pontius Pilate governed, and the Upper City, home to the site of the Last Supper.

Beyond the city walls, the landscape unfolds, revealing the road to Bethlehem and the garden of Joseph of Arimathea, where anxious disciples watch the events of Golgotha unfold. At the heart of the panorama is the powerful depiction of the crucifixion, surrounded by mournful figures including Mary, the mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, Susanna, and Joanna.

A Journey Through Time

The Altötting panorama building offers more than just a visual spectacle; it provides a profound journey through time and faith. The combination of event, landscape, and cityscape panoramas immerses visitors in a carefully crafted illusion, allowing them to feel as though they are witnessing the crucifixion firsthand. The experience is enhanced by an audio guide, narrated by Gustl Weishappel, which leads visitors through the scene with insightful commentary and atmospheric soundscapes.

In conclusion, the Altötting panorama building is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, history, or religion. Its unique blend of architectural innovation and artistic mastery offers a rare glimpse into the past, making it an unforgettable highlight of any trip to Bavaria. Whether you are a pilgrim on a spiritual journey or a traveler seeking cultural enrichment, the Panorama Kreuzigung Christi promises an experience that resonates deeply with the soul.