Auschwitz memorial and school trips – a wide range of options: Learn more
The Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum is divided into two main sites: Auschwitz I (the main camp) and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. Auschwitz I was the original main camp, surrounded by a massive concrete wall and characterised by its historic brick buildings, which now house the permanent exhibition. In the former prisoner blocks, visitors learn about the establishment and history of the camp from 1940 to 1945, the systematic murder of the Jewish population, the property taken from the victims, and the courage and solidarity shown by prisoners. Particularly moving are the cells, detention rooms and the notorious Death Wall at Block 11, which provide a profound insight into the suffering of those imprisoned here.
National exhibitions from Poland, Hungary, France, the Netherlands and Belgium, as well as a comprehensive Shoah exhibition and changing temporary exhibitions, complement the museum’s extensive programme.
Auschwitz II-Birkenau lies approximately three kilometres from the main camp and covers an area around fifty times larger than Auschwitz I. It was the largest extermination camp operated by the Nazi regime. Today, the ruins of prisoner barracks, the remains of four large crematoria and gas chambers, watchtowers, railway tracks and the International Monument bear powerful witness to the horrific history of this place. The entire memorial extends across several dozen hectares and invites visitors to engage deeply with the past.
A visit usually includes a guided tour of both parts of the former camp and lasts approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. Please note that admission is only possible with an advance reservation. The visitor centre provides comprehensive information, sanitary facilities and luggage storage.
