Kamp Vught National Memorial
Noord-Brabant
Kamp Vught National Memorial is a solemn museum and remembrance site located in Vught, North Brabant, Netherlands. It commemorates the former Nazi concentration camp established during World War II at this location. The memorial was founded in 1990, with an exhibition building added in 2002 to deepen visitors' understanding. On the outdoor grounds, visitors find a reconstructed half barrack (number 13b) and several watchtowers, which are built lower than the originals to respect the surrounding penitentiary’s privacy. The original crematorium remains on site and includes a reconstructed cell representing the bunker drama that occurred there, as well as the Monument of Lost Children behind the building. Barrack 1b, the only original barrack still standing, is located separately near the Engineering Museum and has a layered history, having served as a mail and canteen facility during the war and later as housing for Moluccan KNIL soldiers and a church space. The site powerfully preserves the memory of the atrocities committed and educates visitors through authentic artifacts and reconstructions, making it a unique and moving historical destination.
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Tip: Visitors should consider going during weekdays or outside peak hours for a more reflective experience. Tickets are purchased on-site on the day of the visit. Advance reservations are not required but checking the official website for any special events or group visits is recommended. The memorial offers educational programs and group visits, and visitors are encouraged to allocate sufficient time to fully absorb the exhibits and outdoor areas. Discounts for groups or educational institutions may be available.
Interesting facts
- •The memorial includes the only original crematorium building from the camp, preserved as a museum exhibit.
- •Barrack 1b is the sole surviving original barrack and was restored in 2012 after falling into disrepair.
- •In 2021, the memorial acquired three rare photographs depicting a transport of Jewish prisoners from Vught station.
- •The watchtowers on the site are reconstructed but built lower than the originals to avoid overlooking the nearby penitentiary.
- •The Monument of Lost Children is located behind the crematorium, commemorating the youngest victims of the camp.
History
The Kamp Vught concentration camp was established by the Nazis during World War II and operated until liberation.
The memorial site was founded in 1990 to preserve the history and memory of the camp.
In 2002, a dedicated exhibition building was constructed to enhance educational outreach.
Most original camp barracks were demolished by 1992, except for barrack 1b, which was restored in 2012 after years of disuse.
The site continues to evolve as a place of remembrance and education about wartime atrocities and human rights.
Place Guide
Outdoor Grounds and Reconstructions1990s
Explore the reconstructed half barrack 13b and several watchtowers that give insight into the camp's layout and function. These reconstructions help visitors visualize the camp's conditions while respecting current surroundings by being lower than original towers.
Original Crematorium Building1940s
The only original building remaining from the camp, the crematorium now serves as a museum exhibit. Inside, a reconstructed cell depicts the bunker drama that occurred during the camp's operation. Behind the building stands the Monument of Lost Children, honoring the youngest victims.
Barrack 1b1940s
Located separately near the Engineering Museum, this is the only surviving original barrack from the camp. It served various roles including housing mail and canteen services during the war, later accommodating Moluccan KNIL soldiers and functioning as a church space. Restored in 2012, it offers a tangible connection to the camp's history.
Contact
Phone: 073 656 6764
