Dachau Memorial Site

Overview

The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site preserves the grounds of the first Nazi concentration camp, opened in 1933 just 16 km north of Munich. The site includes the roll-call square, reconstructed barracks, gas chamber building, and a sobering exhibition documenting the 41,500 victims.

Highlights

• Main exhibition: A comprehensive, chronologically arranged display covering the 12 years of the camp's operation.
• Reconstructed barracks: Two barracks rebuilt to show original living conditions.
• Memorial chapels: Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish memorials within the grounds.

History

Opened on 22 March 1933 for political prisoners, Dachau became the prototype for all subsequent Nazi concentration camps. Over 200,000 people were imprisoned here until liberation by US forces on 29 April 1945.

Visitor Tips

• Free entry: Open Tue–Sun 09:00–17:00. Audio guide €4 (highly recommended).
• Allow time: The emotional weight of the site demands reflection—don't rush.
• Duration: 3–4 hours.