"Think about how we died here." Translated from German, this quote is inscribed on the stone by the crematorium in Dachau concentration camp. Although people did not die in the crematorium itself, this quote urges visitors to remember the lives that were lost at Dachau. The day we visited Dachau was sunny and beautiful, however, the atmosphere of the camp was eerie. Although renovations and rebuilding has occurred, much of the camp seems frozen in time.
The building that struck me the most was the prison bunker. The bunker housed cells for troublesome inmates, as well as special prisoners like religious and political leaders. Each cell's layout is an example of the Nazi's propoganda attempts. The cells are fitted with a heat register, as well as a toilet. However, neither were actually hooked up for use. Similarly, there was a medical examination room and kitchen that "proved" how well the prisoners were treated. Even though the day was warm, the stone buidling was cold. I can only imagine how much colder it would have been in winter.
Learning about the Holocaust is important, so that the horrors of the past will not be repeated. Unfortunately, humans are still committing acts of unfathomable atrocity against one another. Visiting a place like Dachau helps put these acts into perspective. The statue of the unknown prisoner in Dachau reads "To honor the dead, to warn the living". I hope the victims can rest in peace, knowing that every person who enters Dachau now will honor that wish.
Very well written, and thanks for providing such an in depth account from our experience. Dachau will always be remembered and respected.
ReplyDeleteSomething that also stood out to me was the living quarters for those in solitaire in the prison. The building, along with the barracks as you stated, must have gotten so cold in the winter and to stay in a cell where they just had a heater "for show" must have been unbearable. It was truly an eye opening experience to visit Dachau.
ReplyDeleteIt was truly amazing to see all the propaganda. Our tour guide has also told us that there used to be flower beds & benches in the grassy area, which was just more propaganda because she later told us that they called the grassy area around the fence "the dead zone" because whoever went there got shot & killed. It's so sad to see the beautiful grass & think that if one of the victims ever got too close to it to feel even slightly like they were at home and everything was normal they were killed.
ReplyDeleteVery well put. The entire scene seemed eerie because it was such a gruesome place but yet seemed so outwardly pleasant. The memorial stones were especially powerful.
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