Lichtenburg concentration camp

We stand before Schloss Lichtenburg in Prettin, a site that encapsulates over 700 years of German history—a history that can be viewed here, as some say, through a 'burning glass.' At first glance, this is one of Germany’s…

The central courtyard of the castle, known during the camp era as the Appellplatz, was the site of the daily roll calls that were a central feature of the prisoners' lives. Every morning and evening, up to 1,600 people were…

Hidden in the west wing of the castle is the 'Bunker,' the section of the camp dedicated to solitary and isolated confinement. This is perhaps the most oppressive area of the memorial. …

The museum at Lichtenburg provides a comprehensive overview of the camp's history and the diverse groups of people who were imprisoned here. The exhibition is modern and thoughtfully prepared, utilizing documents, photographs,…

In the central 'Frauengemach'—the former living quarters of the Electresses—you will find a unique and poignant artistic installation by Peter Reichenbach. This installation consists of large woven panels that feature ten…

While we walk these halls, we must confront the legacy of those who operated this camp, such as Maria Mandl. Born in Austria and originally a postal clerk, Mandl joined the SS guard force in Munich before being deployed to…

As we conclude our walk through Schloss Lichtenburg, we exit through the same gates that once held so much suffering. We have seen a place that is an architectural enigma—a magnificent Renaissance palace that was twisted into a…