The Łambinowice seat of the Central Museum of Prisoners-of-War is located within the oldest part of the Lamsdorf military range, referred to as Camp I (Lager I) in the past. Even prior to that it was known as the camp of foot artillery (Fusslager). Until the end of World War 2, there were Prussian and, then, German soldiers stationed here. They did their practice in the range. The area of the so-called Camp I served also as a place to detain POWs: during the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871) – French soldiers, during World War 1 – soldiers of the Entente. In the Interwar period, the facilities of Camp I were occupied by German immigrants who had come from the Polish part of Upper Silesia (mainly employees of the Headquarters of the Reich Railway in Katowice and their families). Apart from them, there were participants of different trainings of the sports and military character accommodated here. In the time of World War 2, the buildings sited in this area played the role, among others, of an administrative and economic base for the POW camps in Lamsdorf. Of the original infrastructure of Camp I there have been preserved the buildings of the former guardhouse and the officers’ canteen and also residential buildings (in their majority using timber framing). They are sited in the vicinity of the Museum, along the asphalt road running through the village. The main building of the Museum was erected in the 1930s as the seat of the German headquarters of the military range. It has belonged to the Museum since the moment of its establishment in 1964. During that time it has been modernized a few times; likewise has that of the former guardhouse standing nearby. The both house exhibitions nowadays. The permanent exhibition covers the whole of the POW problem area in the period of World War 2, as well as the history of the camps in Lamsdorf/Łambinowice. More information is available in the tab “Exhibition”
History & Anthropology Maritime Open air War
Monday | 8:00 – 15:30 |
Tuesday | 8:00 – 15:30 |
Wednesday | 8:00 – 15:30 |
Thursday | 8:00 – 15:30 |
Friday | 8:00 – 15:30 |
Saturday | Closed |
Sunday | 9:00 – 16:00 |
Opening hiurs are hanging betwen 1st october and 31 march. More information on https://www.cmjw.pl/en/zwiedzanie/
Muzealna 4, Łambinowice
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The Central Prisoner of War Museum in Łambinowice, Poland, offers a somber and educational experience focusing on the history of prisoner-of-war camps in the area. Visitors often find the exhibits informative and well-presented, providing insight into the lives of prisoners during various conflicts, including World War I and World War II. The museum's strength lies in its authentic location and the preservation of historical artifacts and documents.
Many reviewers appreciate the museum's efforts to maintain the memory of those who suffered in the camps, noting the poignant atmosphere and the well-maintained grounds. The outdoor areas, including the cemetery and memorial sites, add depth to the visitor experience, allowing for reflection on the human cost of war.
However, some visitors mention that the museum could benefit from more English translations, as many exhibits are primarily in Polish. This can be a drawback for international tourists. Additionally, a few reviewers suggest that the museum could use some modernization in its presentation methods to engage younger audiences more effectively.
Despite these minor issues, the Central Prisoner of War Museum is generally regarded as an important historical site that offers a valuable learning experience. It successfully balances the need to inform with the respect due to such a sensitive subject matter.