OSWIECIM

Oswiecim - Auschwitz

Very few visitors are aware that the loaded term “Auschwitz” not only refers to the former Auschwitz concentration camp complex, but also to a small town with 40.000 inhabitants that can look back on over 700 years of history. At times it belonged to Germany, at times to Austria, at times to Poland. Jews settled in Oświęcim early on. The Jewish community shaped life in the town for a long time, often playing a leading role in almost all areas of the town’s affairs. This was not uncommon in Polish, but also in Ukrainian towns. When Germany attacked Poland in 1939, half of the population of Oświęcim was Jewish.

Jewish Museum in Oswiecim

Before the Second World War, more than half of Oswiecim’s population was Jewish. The Jewish Museum commemorates their life and work.
Opening hours:
April – September: 10 am – 6 pm
October – March: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The museum is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.
Admission: 10 PLN
The entrance fee includes a visit to the synagogue, the museum and the Jewish cemetery.