Terezin's Significance:
Terezin was initially built as a fortress to protect Prague from Prussian attacks in the 19th century. Later, it was occupied by Nazis and used as a transit camp for prisoners on their way to death camps. While Terezin, known as Theresienstadt in German, was not used as an extermination camp, it still witnessed the deaths of tens of thousands of prisoners who died from the terrible conditions there - lack of food, spread of disease, overcrowding, and murder.
Terezin Memorial:
Today, Terezin exists "to commemorate the victims of the Nazi political and racial persecution during the occupation of the Czech lands in World War II." Visitors can tour the Ghetto Museum, the barracks, and the Small Fortress, which explores Terezin's role as a political prison for Prague Gestapo. Guided tours are available, but it's also possible to purchase brochures describing the exhibitions.
Getting to Terezin:
You can get to Terezin from Prague by bus. The ride is about one hour. Inquire at the Florenc bus station. Tours also leave from Prague, but this is also a popular day trip for individual travelers. Be sure to pack a snack, since a place to get a bite to eat may not be easily found in Terezin.
Terezin Website:
For opening hours, ticket prices, and other information, you can visit the Terezin Memorial website at: www.pamatnik-terezine.cz.
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