I got to the visitior center around 9 am, which was nice because the crowds were still small. I ordered an audio book for a self-guided walking tour. I had planned to take my time here, and take in as much as possible.
As expected, it was a very moving experience. And the whole grounds is setup very well to help you learn about Germany right after WWI, then to the Camp liberation in 1945, and even through the 1960s when it became a memorial site.
I read almost sign, listened to every audio clip, and watched every video. I've been captivated by WWII, probably because both Grandpas were in the war. The only problem of the day was carrying everything in my backpack. My feet and back began to ache, probably bc that HB mug was so heavy!
The most striking visuals were the main gate, the open grounds where the prisoners would stand every morning, the guard towers, and of course the ovens. I think it is important to keep these around to remind us, but it is still solemn to see.
They also had a record book of Prisoners. There was a sense of reflection, but pride when I found a "Krzeminski" in the entries.
I wasn't ready to leave, but it was to go. It took about 4-5 hours finally get back to my apartment in Herzo. What a great weekend! I have traveled successfully & safely. No bad stories too! I had made it through my first 50 days in Germany. And best of all, I was going to get internet at my apartment soon!
Dachau Main Gate Sign
The infamous gate.. 'work makes you free'
The actual check-in desk
Daily routine
You can see here, that deaths didn't rise until late 1944, then it was disturbing
Krzeminski in the archives
The old crematorium
The 4 newer ovens
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