Altötting Episcopal Administration acquires legendary nativity scene

The Episcopal Administration in Altötting has acquired a legendary work of art: the "Altöttinger Heimat- und Wallfahrtskrippe". This is reported in the current edition of the "Passauer Bistumsblatt". The cot not only depicts the Christmas events against the backdrop of Altötting's Chapel Square, but also brings together a whole series of historical figures in the line of Christkindl worshippers. In addition to shepherds and kings, they include Brother Konrad, Pope John Paul II, Bishop Rupertus of Salzburg, Count Tilly and even the former Bavarian Minister President Franz Josef Strauß.

According to the report, the work was created in 1980 by Innviertel artist Karl Gruber, the "sculptor of Hohenzell". He died in 2018 at the age of 96. He was commissioned to create the nativity scene by Oskar Bender, the then prefect of the Marian Sodality of Men and managing director of the "Altöttinger Liebfrauenbote". When parish priest Klaus Metzl learnt that his descendants wanted to part with the cot due to lack of space, he didn't have to think twice. All the heirs wanted was for the work of art to remain in Altötting.

According to the diocesan newspaper, the cot is to be placed in the foyer of Pope Benedict XVI's house in future. Even before the reopening of the treasury and pilgrimage museum in April 2025, it will be shown in advance at the Altötting nativity scene exhibition. This can be seen in the town's Congregation Hall until 15 December. (KNA)