Auschwitz Birkenau Concentration Camp

Just over 50 kilometers west of Krakow lies the small town of Oswiecim, a place that would easily have remained in relative obscurity were it not for the Nazis’ decision to construct the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration (and later death) camp there. Since the war ended, the site has been preserved as a museum and memorial, and receives over a million visitors a year. Allow a good three hours for the visit, which includes both camps: Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. Although it is generally most notorious for the huge numbers of Jews murdered there, it is worth pointing out that a considerable quantity of non-jewish Poles also died there. Visiting the camp is part of the Polish schools’ curriculum. Be advised that for many visitors it can be a profoundly moving experience. Admission to the museum is free but various types of guided tour are available at differing prices.