A German extermination camp known as Kulmhof, opened in 1941. Today a memorial in the Rzuchów forest — far from the village and the roads.
Chełmno nad Nerem was the first extermination site opened on Polish soil. The camp operated in two periods — 1941–1943 and in 1944 — and victims were taken to the Rzuchów forest and murdered there. Estimates of the number of victims range from about 150,000 to 300,000; we cite them after museum publications, because sources differ.
What to see
Monuments and memorials stand in the forest, while the village holds the site of the camp and information panels. This is a dispersed place, so start with the museum information and only then walk into the forest.
How to visit
Visiting is individual. Silence, no tourist infrastructure. Allow about one to two hours.
Getting there
The village lies near Koło in Greater Poland. A car is the practical option; public transport is sparse.
