Embark on a solemn journey through the remnants of Krakow’s Nazi Ghetto and the grounds of the former Plaszow Concentration Camp. This walking tour is designed to provide a deep historical insight into two of the most poignant chapters of World War II in Krakow. It aims to honor the memory of the victims and educate participants about the atrocities committed during the Holocaust.
From the Ghetto to the Concentration Camp: The tour begins at Ghetto Heroes Square in Podgórze, where you’ll stand on the very ground where the Krakow Ghetto was established by the Nazis in 1941. The square is marked by 33 empty chairs made of iron and bronze, each representing a thousand of the ghetto’s victims and serving as a powerful visual reminder of the loss of life. Here, you will learn about the daily struggles and heroic acts of resistance by the ghetto’s inhabitants, as well as the infamous ghetto liquidation in 1943.
As we proceed from the ghetto to the Plaszow site, your guide will discuss the transition from a forced labor camp to a concentration camp, detailing the conditions under which the prisoners lived and the brutalities they endured. This segment of the tour not only covers the historical facts but also brings to life stories of individual suffering and bravery.
Eagle Pharmacy – A Beacon of Hope: A crucial stop on our tour is the Eagle Pharmacy, located at the edge of the former Ghetto. Owned by Tadeusz Pankiewicz, this pharmacy was a critical point of support for the Jewish community. Pankiewicz and his staff risked their lives to aid ghetto residents, and the pharmacy itself became a hub for information and clandestine activities. The story of Eagle Pharmacy highlights the complexity of human morality in times of war and the acts of courage that emerged from the horror.
Plaszow Concentration Camp – A Site of Memory: Upon reaching the Plaszow Concentration Camp site, you will explore what remains of the camp, including the commandant’s house and various memorials erected to commemorate the victims. This part of the tour delves into the operation of the camp, the role it played in the Nazi’s final solution, and the impact it had on thousands of lives. You will hear about Amon Goeth, the infamous commandant of the camp, and the systemic atrocities committed under his command.
The tour will also touch upon the ways in which these historic sites have been preserved and remembered in the post-war period, including their portrayal in films like “Schindler’s List,” which brought international attention to the stories of Schindler and the Plaszow camp.
Reflective Conclusion: The tour concludes with a reflective discussion on the importance of remembering these dark times and the lessons they impart for future generations. This final discussion aims to provide closure to the emotional journey of the day and offer insights into the ongoing efforts to commemorate and educate about the Holocaust.
This tour is not merely a historical recount; it is an immersive experience designed to honor the memory of those who suffered and to educate participants about the profound impacts of hatred and intolerance, as well as the enduring human spirit and resilience. Join us to pay homage to the past and learn the crucial lessons history has to offer.
Join us for this educational and moving tour through Krakow’s Ghetto and Plaszow Concentration Camp. Book your tour today to understand more deeply the historical events that shaped the fate of thousands during WWII.
A personal tour just for you and your group of up to 10 people.
