Mauthausen {Europe Trip, Part V}

In a lucky twist of fate, we happened to plan on visiting Mauthausen on a drizzly, gray day.  I had not heard of Mauthausen before this trip, but it was one of the World War II Concentration Camps.  In my previous time in Germany, I had not ever visited a Concentration Camp, nor have I seen a movie about them.  I knew a little, but not much of what went on.  I'll just say, the weather matched our experience there.  Children under 14 are not allowed to visit.  I understand why.  If my children had been with me, they would have been so confused to see me so emotional.  We spent 3 1/2 hours at the concentration camp and still didn't even get to see it all or hear all the stories or read all the material available to us.  It was very sobering indeed to think of what the prisoners there endured and to think of all who inflicted the torture as well.  I don't think we realize how lucky we are in our lives.  I definitely believe I need to cherish my freedom and opportunities instead of complaining about all my insignificant problems. 

Outside the Camp

Another view

The gates

Here I am reading about the Wailing Wall

Center courtyard of the camp

Inside one of the barracks

Plaque on the wall in the memorial room

Day of Liberation, May 5, 1945

Another Courtyard

We went back and forth as to whether we would visit Mauthausen and I am glad that we did so that in a small way we are more aware of that portion of history.  As sad as it was, it was important to see.