A Private Day Trip from Colmar to WWII Alsace Memorial Sights

Explore the Historical Legacy: Full-Day Tour from Colmar

Embark on an insightful journey through history as you discover the compelling highlights of the Alsace region on this full-day tour. Your morning begins with a convenient pickup from your centrally located accommodation in Colmar, where you will meet your knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide. Together, you will review the program and itinerary for the day before boarding your premium air-conditioned vehicle.

Visit the Alsace-Moselle WWII Memorial Museum

Delve into the intricate history of Alsace and Moselle, particularly during the tumultuous period of the Second World War, at the Alsace-Moselle Memorial. This memorial stands as a testament to the collective efforts of the region, aiming to shed light on the complex experiences endured during the Nazi occupation. From 1940 to 1945, Alsace and Moselle faced the harsh reality of being the only French territories annexed by the Third Reich, enduring the brutalities of a totalitarian regime.

To truly comprehend the agony, it is essential to trace the historical footsteps of a region fiercely contested by France and Germany. The enduring struggle has shaped the culture and heritage of Alsace and Moselle, enriching their identity. The memorial provides a comprehensive history lesson accessible to all, emphasizing the importance of European unity, diversity, and the utmost respect and dignity for every individual in the pursuit of peace and freedom.

Reach the Natzweiler-Struthof Concentration Camp

Journey to the Natzweiler-Struthof concentration camp, situated near the village of Struthof. As the only concentration camp in France during the Nazi occupation, it holds profound historical significance. The central camp, located in the annexed Alsace region, was part of a network of approximately 70 camps spread across both sides of the Rhine.

Within the KL-Natzwiller complex, nearly 52,000 detainees were held, with around 35,000 not passing through the central camp. Serving as a labor camp supporting the Nazi war industry, it also became a site for horrific medical experiments conducted by professors from the Reich University of Strasbourg.

On November 23, 1944, the Allies discovered the evacuated camp, as the Nazis had fled in September. Tragically, some deportees from the camp's annexes suffered through the "Death Marches" in the spring of 1945. Throughout its existence from 1941 to 1945, KL-Natzwiller stood as one of the most deadly camps within the Nazi system, claiming the lives of nearly 22,000 deportees.

Conclude Your Tour and Return to Colmar

After this poignant exploration of history, your tour concludes, and you will be transported back to Colmar. Reflect upon the profound lessons learned from the past, carrying with you a deep appreciation for the importance of remembrance and preserving the values of peace and humanity.