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Inside Auschwitz | Uncovering the Harrowing History Behind the Barbed Wire & Reflecting on its Tragic Past

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Auschwitz was a concentration camp established by the Nazis in occupied Poland during World War II. It was the largest and deadliest camp, where over 1.1 million people were murdered, mostly Jews. Today, tourists visit the site to pay their respects, learn about the atrocities committed there, and reflect on the importance of tolerance and human rights.

What’s Inside Auschwitz Birkenau Concentration Camp?

Auschwitz has several permanent sights that remind us of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. One of the most significant areas is Block 11, also known as the ‘Death Block,’ where prisoners were tortured and executed. Another important zone is Block 25, which houses the Auschwitz Memorial Museum, and displays artifacts and documents related to the camp's history. Visitors can also view the crematoriums, gas chambers, and ruins of the former barracks. 

Commemoration Signs at Auschwitz Birkenau

Commemoration Signs

Commemoration signs at Auschwitz serve as powerful reminders of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. These signs are placed throughout the site, including at important locations like the entrance gate, with the infamous slogan "Arbeit Macht Frei" (Work Sets You Free).

Extermination Area at Auschwitz Birkenau

Extermination Area

Block 4 housed the first gas chamber, where thousands of innocent people, mostly Jews, were murdered by the Nazis. Victims were led into the gas chamber under the pretense of being given a shower, only to be killed by Zyklon B gas, and were later burned in the crematorium.

Block 5 at Auschwitz Birkenau

Block 5

Block 5 is a part of the Auschwitz Museum, where visitors can see thousands of personal belongings, like shoes, clothing, eyeglasses, and suitcases that were confiscated from the prisoners. The items on display give visitors a visceral understanding of the brutality of the Holocaust.

Block 6 at Auschwitz Birkenau

Block 6

Block 6 at Auschwitz I is a museum exhibit that displays the personal belongings and replicas of wooden bunks to show the living conditions of prisoners. The exhibit serves as a haunting reminder of the unimaginable suffering of the millions who perished in the mass extermination at Auschwitz.

Block 7 at Auschwitz Birkenau

Block 7

Block 7 at Auschwitz I is a museum exhibit that includes information about the cramped living conditions, the inadequate and often nonexistent sanitation facilities, and the spread of diseases within the camp. Visitors can see replicas of the bunk beds and the primitive latrines used by the prisoners. 

Death Block at Auschwitz Birkenau

Death Block

Block 11 at Auschwitz I, also known as the death block, was used to deliver various forms of punishment, including torture, executions, and standing cells. It also housed a basement prison, known as ‘the bunker,’ where prisoners were held in solitary confinement and subjected to extreme torture. 

Death Wall at Auschwitz Birkenau

Death Wall

The Death Wall at Auschwitz Birkenau is a reconstructed portion of the original wall where thousands of innocent prisoners, mostly Jews, were executed by the Nazis. The wall was rebuilt after the war to serve as a poignant reminder of the atrocities that took place at the concentration camp. 

Gas Chamber I at Auschwitz Birkenau

Gas Chamber I

Crematorium I and the first gas chamber at Auschwitz I was used by the Nazis to carry out mass exterminations of prisoners during the Holocaust. The gas chamber was disguised as a shower room, and once the prisoners were inside, Zyklon B gas was released, killing them within minutes. 

Central Camp Baths at Auschwitz Birkenau

Central Camp Baths

The permanent exhibition in the central camp sauna building serves as a poignant reminder of the Holocaust atrocities. It displays various artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide a glimpse into the daily lives of prisoners, including their living conditions, medical experiments, and forced labor.

How to Get Inside Auschwitz Birkenau Concentration Camp?

Entry to the Auschwitz memorial site (Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II Birkenau) is free of charge. Since Auschwitz receives a large number of visitors throughout the year, we recommend you book Auschwitz guided tours online in advance to ensure that you have a tour guide on the day of your visit.

Auschwitz Birkenau Visitor Tips & Guidelines

  • Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking in Auschwitz, so wear comfortable, closed shoes that will allow you to move around the site easily.
  • Bring water and snacks: Auschwitz Birkenau is a large site, and you may be walking and exploring for several hours. Bring water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
  • Don't bring large bags: Large bags, backpacks, and purses are not allowed inside the exhibits. Only small bags are allowed, and they will be subject to security checks.
  • Take a guided tour: A guided tour can help you understand the history of the site and the significance of the various exhibits and structures. Make sure to book guided tours in advance to reserve your spot upon payment confirmation. 
  • Allow plenty of time: Auschwitz Birkenau has several exhibitions and blocks to explore, so make sure to keep a few hours on hand to explore the site at your own pace.
  • Respect the site: Auschwitz is a memorial site built to honor the thousands who perished in the Holocaust. Avoid taking selfies or engaging in other inappropriate behavior.
  • Be prepared for an emotional experience: As a memorial site constructed to honor the thousands of prisoners, mostly Jews, who were slaughtered during the Holocaust, many visitors find their Auschwitz experience to be emotional and intense. If you feel overwhelmed, take breaks. Try to prepare yourself in advance and take time to process your feelings.
  • Follow the rules: There are rules and regulations in place at Auschwitz Birkenau to ensure the safety of visitors and to protect the site. Follow these rules and do not touch any artifacts or structures.
  • Plan ahead: Auschwitz Birkenau is a popular destination, and tickets can sell out quickly. Plan ahead and book your guided tours online in advance.

Book Auschwitz Tours

Guided Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau with Fast-Track Tickets
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Mobile Ticket
3 hr. 30 min.
Guided Tour
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Auschwitz-Birkenau: Guided Tour with Transfers from Meeting Point & Optional Lunch
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7 hr. - 7 hr. 30 min.
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Transfers Included
Meals Included
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Guided Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau with Hotel Transfers from Krakow Center
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7 hr.
Guided Tour
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Combo: Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow with Optional Lunch
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11 hr.
Guided Tour
Transfers Included
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Guided Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau with Lunch & Hotel Pick-Up from Krakow Center
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7 hr.
Guided Tour
Transfers Included
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Round-Trip Tickets: Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum to/from Krakow Bus Station
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Flexible Duration
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Frequently Asked Questions About What’s Inside Auschwitz

What is inside Auschwitz Birkenau?

Inside the Auschwitz Birkenau concentration camp, you can see the remains of barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria, as well as exhibitions of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the stories of the people who were imprisoned there. 

Can I go inside Auschwitz Birkenau?

Yes, you can book Auschwitz tours and explore the exhibits, blocks, and remains of barracks inside the concentration camp. 

How big is Auschwitz?

The Auschwitz Birkenau camp is quite big. It has a total area of about 40 square kilometers or 15 square miles.

Can I take a tour inside Auschwitz Birkenau?

Yes, you can book Auschwitz tours to explore the exhibits and remains of the concentration camp. Having an experienced tour guide along for the visit would help you to understand the extent of the brutality of the Holocaust.

Are children allowed to visit Auschwitz?

Yes, children are allowed to visit Auschwitz. However, it is not recommended for children under the age of 14 years.

Is Auschwitz wheelchair accessible?

Yes, most parts of the Auschwitz Birkenau camp are fitted with ramps to make it wheelchair accessible. You can also reach out to guards to assist wherever necessary.

Is it free to go inside Auschwitz Birkenau?

Yes, you can enter the Auschwitz Memorial camp (Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II Birkenau) for free. You do not have to purchase a ticket.

Do I need a ticket to go inside Auschwitz Birkenau?

No, you can enter the Auschwitz Memorial camp (Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II Birkenau) without a ticket. It has free entry throughout the year. 

Can I take pictures inside Auschwitz Birkenau?

You can take pictures of the exhibits inside Auschwitz, as long as it is for personal use and does not involve the use of flash or stands. However, there are two areas where photography is prohibited: the hall with the hair of victims (Block 4) and the basements of Block 11.

Is there a dress code I should follow to go inside Auschwitz Birkenau?

Auschwitz is a memorial site built to honor those who perished in the Holocaust. While it does not have a dress policy, you must be respectful.

Is visiting Auschwitz Birkenau worth it?

Yes, if you are interested in history, the World Wars, and the Holocaust, you must pay a visit to Auschwitz to witness the brutality of the genocide and pay your respects to those who passed away due to those atrocities.