The Museum of Prisoner-of-War Camps in Żagań

The Museum of Prisoner-of-War Camps in Żagań, previously known as the Museum of the Martyrdom of Allied Prisoners of War, was established in 1971 on the grounds of the former Stalag VIIIC and Kriegsgefangenen Stammlager der Luftwaffe 3 Sagan camps, where Allied prisoners of war were held during World War II. The museum aims to commemorate the martyrdom of these prisoners and promote knowledge about their efforts to escape captivity. Architecturally, the museum is situated in historical buildings that were part of the camp. These structures bear traces of the past, emphasizing the distinctive atmosphere of the place and its historical significance. The museum’s interiors are arranged in a way that allows visitors to have direct contact with the exhibits and gain an understanding of the history of the prisoner-of-war camps. Culturally, the museum plays an important role in commemorating the victims of World War II and promoting values related to freedom and human dignity. It organizes various exhibitions, educational events, and workshops that attract both tourists and the local community. An interesting fact is that the Museum of Prisoner-of-War Camps in Żagań is one of the few places in Poland that extensively documents the fate of Allied prisoners of war and their escape attempts. It features not only exhibitions related to camp life but also personal items, documents, photographs, and reconstructions of events from World War II, making a visit to the museum a unique educational experience. Since 2009, the museum has operated under its current name, reflecting a broader thematic scope that includes not only martyrdom but also the history of the prisoner-of-war camps, their operations, and the daily lives of the prisoners. The museum’s activities and its role in preserving the memory of World War II make it an important landmark on Poland’s cultural and historical map.