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Visit of Sally’s Family in Toruń – Following the Footsteps of Stalag XXA, War History, and Prisoner Memory

 Toruń, famous for its Gothic walls, Nicolaus Copernicus, and gingerbread, recently welcomed special guests from England. Sally and her family came to honor the memory of her father, a prisoner of Stalag XXA – a German POW camp located, among other places, in the forts of the Toruń Fortress during World War II. The group, consisting of eight people, represented multiple generations, adding deep significance to this pilgrimage.

Preparations for the Journey to Sites of Memory

The planning for this meaningful journey began in February 2023. Through systematic communication and thorough research, the family gathered detailed information about the places linked to their relative’s time in Stalag XXA. Our shared goal was to learn about the camp’s history in-depth and pay tribute to their ancestor who endured the hardships of captivity. The knowledge acquired allowed us to chart a route that highlighted Toruń's most crucial sites connected to POW heritage.

Tour Route and Key Sites of Stalag XXA in the Toruń Fortress

We started the visit with key sites in Toruń associated with Stalag XXA’s history. We explored the remnants of the Toruń Fortress fortifications, where prisoners of war were held under harsh conditions. During the guided tour, we narrated stories of the prisoners' daily struggles, their hopes, and the challenges they faced.

Toruń is a city full of contrasts: on one hand, a formidable fortress with a tragic wartime history, and on the other, stunning Gothic architecture, rich cultural traditions, and famous gingerbread. This combination made the visit not only educational but also, we hope, an awe-inspiring tourist experience.

Stalag XXA camp remains in Torun


Emotions and Reflections of Family Members – Memories of War Prisoners

Visiting places that witnessed the fate of Sally’s father stirred deep memories and reflections among the family members. Every stop along the route evoked emotional recollections of their loved one. Such journeys are an opportunity to share heartfelt reflections and personal family stories filled with deep emotion and contemplation.

Toruń – A UNESCO City, Fortress, and Stalag XXA Heritage Site

Toruń serves not only as a place of remembrance for families of prisoners searching for their relatives' traces but also as a remarkable tourist attraction. Many families, like Sally’s, visit to undertake a pilgrimage honoring their ancestors. The city also captivates tourists interested in war history, with its unique Gothic architecture and cultural heritage offering a memorable destination, perfect for exploring and making the most of one’s visit.

The Importance of Stalag XXA Heritage for Younger Generations and Passing on Memory

A crucial aspect of this visit was the presence of Sally’s younger family members. For the children and grandchildren, it was an invaluable history lesson, helping them understand how war and captivity shaped their grandfather's life. Passing on knowledge about Stalag XXA’s legacy is vital to ensure that the memory of those times is preserved and shared with future generations.

We are honored to have been part of this family journey, full of emotions, reflections, and inspiring discoveries. Sally and her family's visit reminded us of the importance of cherishing and sharing memories of the past. We hope Toruń will forever remain in their hearts as a special place, full of history and profound experiences.

Stalag 20A XXA monument


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