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).
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- Book your airport transfer now and enjoy a hassle-free ride directly to your hotel. Driver will meet you at John Paul II International Airport Kraków–Balice.
- Take a Tour of Auschwitz. Arrange a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum to pay tribute and learn about this significant historical site.
⚠️ EASTER BOOKING ALERT: Auschwitz tours are filling rapidly for the holiday period. Secure your visit now to guarantee your preferred date and time slot. Last-minute availability cannot be guaranteed during this peak season. Due to high demand during Easter, it’s strongly recommended to book your tickets and tour to Auschwitz well in advance to secure your preferred dates and times! 🔖
- Explore the Fascinating Wieliczka Salt Mine! Book your guided tour today. These tours are very popular, so book early to avoid disappointment and ensure your spot.
- Looking for ideas? Check out our KrakowTOP.org recommended itineraries, including the famous Christmas Market, holiday events, and must-see Krakow attractions like Wawel Castle, Oskar Schindler’s Factory and St. Mary’s Basilica.
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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.
