Monday, February 20, 2012

Dachau and Munich
It is hard to find words to describe my impressions of Dachau.  I learned that it was not 'intended' to be an extermination camp. However, of 200,000 or more people imprisoned there, more than 40,000 died. 
Our German-born but English-speaking guide was eloquent and thorough.  He conveyed deep remorse over the fates of those imprisoned and murdered by the Nazis during World War II.
He told us that EVERY German student is required to visit Dachau, so that they will
NEVER FORGET.


Marker to show where ashes were buried


A crematorium

"Arbeit Macht Frei"
These words greeted prisoners as they entered the camp.
The translation is roughly, "Work Will Make You Free"


Sculpture commemorating those who committed suicide by throwing their bodies upon the electric fence that encircled the camp


The fence

And from this great sadness, we made our way to Munich.


Klezmer band in Marionplatz

Michelle and a guardian lion at the Residence


Beautiful old German buildings


Three distinct periods and architectural styles in close proximity

The grand Glockenspiel in Marionplatz

A very old church


A lovely domed building in the gardens


...and a beer at the Hofbrau House to finish the day!
Guten nacht, meine Friende...tomorrow I will take you for a walk in an ice palace and to the lovely Bavarian village of Schwangau.