If you are interested in history and would like to gain a deeper understanding of the tragedies that occurred during World War II, a visit to Sachsenhausen is a must. As one of the most notorious concentration camps established by the Nazis, Sachsenhausen offers a unique opportunity to learn and pay tribute to the victims.
What is Sachsenhausen?
Sachsenhausen was one of the concentration located in Oranienburg in northern Germany, near Berlin. The camp art built in the year 1936, which was one of the initial concentration camps set up by the Nazis. What was established as a model camp for new methods of forced labor was a training center for SS officers and one of the most tragically known camps, in which thousands of prisoners perished.
Understanding the History
Before going further in discussing the importance of Sachsenhausen, let it be stated that accurate evaluation of the camp necessitates a view of historical background. Escapism: The camp represents Nazi’s brutality and continuity of political and social prejudice, extermination of the minorities and dissidents and anyone considered ‘unfit’ by the regime.
Key Features of Sachsenhausen
Finally, the Sachsenhausen was sub divided into different zones each with his or her specialized role in handling prisoners. Some of the key features of Sachsenhausen include:
1. The Appellplatz
The Appellplatz or roll call square was where prisoners were paraded everyday for counts, and other forms of discipline. As such it acts as a cold reminder that within the camp people were treated rather inhumanely and brutally.
2. The Arbeit macht frei Gate
While entering the camp there was a gate with a sign Arbeit macht frei in English Work will set you free. This cruel irony had the purpose of giving a moment of hope to a victim thinking she is safe and the next step shall be the final one.
3. The Barracks
The camp had many barracks where prisoners were confined strictly in crowded and extremely unsanitary environment. Each barracks accommodated hundreds of prisoners and thereby compounded their misery.
4. The Infirmary
Medical experiments on inmates were conducted in the infirmary which was a clear example of the callousness and nonchalance the camp had towards lives of people.
Expectation During Your Visit
A trip around Sachsenhausen is therefore, both an emotionally moving and informative process. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:
1. Guided Tours
It might be helpful to take a guided tour of the camp in order to understand all the historical meaning behind Sachsenhausen. Professional guides can give detailed descriptions that may go unnoticed by the client, and will also help the client not to miss critical points of interest.
2. Memorials and Exhibitions
Therefore to the multiple memorials, exhibitions and restored buildings within the camp take your time and go round. These give the necessary information regarding the lives that were lost during the time of existence of the camp and the brutalities that the lives went through.
3. Reflection and Remembrance
Please take a moment to reflect and remember as walk through camp… It is certainly very stressful and it is important to give your condolences to the victims and try to remember them.
4. Support Facilities
Today the main structure of Sachsenhausen includes support buildings such as visitor and orientation center, cafeteria, and a proper bookstore. They can have extra information and food supplies for participants and a contemplation area.
Conclusion
This is not just a great idea but one can be surprised to learn different parts of the story a visit to Sachsenhausen is a powerful and poignant experience that must be faced. It is to make people listen to history and never let another event like it happen again in the world. Sachsenhausen must be seen as a way to honor the memories of those who didn’t make it and to pledge to build a new society founded upon understanding and acceptance.
