The Appellplatz of Dachau concentration camp with two poplars and barrack buildings

The Appellplatz, the roll call square of Dachau concentration camp, dominated by two majestic poplars. In this vast space, prisoners were forced to gather twice daily for counting, often for hours under scorching sun or winter frost. The long buildings on the sides are reconstructions of original barracks, demolished after the war. Roll call was a moment of terror: any discrepancy in the count could lead to collective punishment, and sick or weak inmates often collapsed during endless waits. Over 41,000 people died at Dachau.

Dachau, Appellplatz, roll call square, poplars, barracks, prisoners