The names Auschwitz, Birkenau and Monowitz are the German equivalents of the Polish names Oświęcim, Brzezinka and Monowice, used after the German aggression on Poland in 1939 and the annexation of these lands by the Third Reich .
Name Auschwitz in Polish language
Hitler’s Auschwitz decree of October 8, 1939, was incorporated into the Third Reich and was within the so-called Great Germany, in the Bielsko poviat (Landkreis Bielitz) of the Katowice province (Regierungsbezirk Kattowitz) of the province of Upper Silesia (Provinz Oberschlesien).
Plan Your Krakow Trip in Minutes
Book the essentials for your stay in Krakow – hotel, airport transfer, and the city’s most popular tours – before the best options sell out.
- Arrive without stress: Book your Krakow airport transfer for a direct ride from John Paul II International Airport Krakow-Balice to your hotel.
- Reserve the most popular tours: Secure your spot on the Auschwitz tour, the Wieliczka Salt Mine tour, or the Schindler’s Factory tour.
- Need ideas for your trip? Explore our recommended itineraries and top Krakow attractions, including Wawel Castle, Oskar Schindler’s Factory, and St. Mary’s Basilica.
Peak season tip: Auschwitz tours are often in high demand in summer, on weekends, and around holidays. Book early for the best choice of dates and start times. For backup options, see last-minute Auschwitz tours.
Most Popular Bookings
Auschwitz Tour
Best to book in advance during peak season.
Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour
One of the most popular half-day trips from Krakow.
Schindler’s Factory Tour
A top museum experience in Krakow.
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- Auschwitz Shuttle – Auschwitz Museum to Kraków
- Auschwitz Tours from Krakow
- Cheapest Auschwitz tour
- Auschwitz Tour Price
- Best Auschwitz Tour from Krakow
- History of Auschwitz Birkenau
- Auschwitz location in Poland
- What is so special about Wieliczka and Where is Wieliczka Salt Mine
- How to get to Wieliczka from Krakow
In 1940, in these areas, the German authorities set up a camp. The camps had been initially intended to settle political prisoners and opposition, mainly Poles.
It was then gradually expanded into the main place of mass extermination of about 1.1 million Jews from all over Europe, as well as 140-150,000 Poles, about 23,000 Roma and about 12,000 Soviet prisoners of war and victims of other nationalities.
