85th Anniversary of the First Transport of Poles to Auschwitz – 14 June 2025
May 22, 2025
Learn about the official commemorations of the 85th anniversary of the first transport of Polish prisoners to Auschwitz on 14 June 2025.
85th Anniversary of the First Transport of Poles to Auschwitz – 14 June 2025
On 14 June 2025, the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum will mark the 85th anniversary of the first mass transport of Poles to the Nazi German concentration camp Auschwitz. On this day in 1940, 728 Polish prisoners were deported from the prison in Tarnów to the newly established camp in Oświęcim. This date is recognised as the official beginning of Auschwitz’s operation.
Political prisoners at Tarnów railway station before deportation to Auschwitz, 14 June 1940. IPN/Wikipedia, public domain
Who Were the First Prisoners of Auschwitz?
The first transport included young Poles: scouts, teachers, students, civil servants, clergy, and resistance members, as well as those arrested while trying to reach Polish military units abroad. The youngest was just 16 years old. Their fate symbolises the beginning of repression that eventually led to mass extermination.
Official Commemorations – Programme for 14 June 2025
The anniversary will be commemorated by the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and its partners through official and public events. The programme includes:
11:30 AM – Holy Mass at the Franciscan Monastery in Harmęże
1:00 PM – Flower-laying ceremony at the memorial plaque commemorating the deportation of the first Poles to Auschwitz (Małopolska State University in Oświęcim, named after Witold Pilecki)
2:00 PM – Main commemoration at the Wall of Death (former Auschwitz I camp) with participation of government officials and representatives of remembrance institutions
Visiting the Memorial and Individual Commemoration
On this day, the Auschwitz Memorial will remain open to visitors. Museum educators will guide organised groups.
If you wish to conduct an individual act of remembrance – such as laying flowers or candles at the Wall of Death (Block 11 courtyard) – prior registration is required via: 📧 [email protected] (please contact the museum in advance to arrange a time slot)
If you are planning a visit to the site, we offer respectful, professionally guided tours to help you better understand the history and significance of this place.
Walk in the footsteps of history on a professionally guided visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau – one of the most important memorial sites in the world. Departing from Krakow, this all-inclusive tour offers powerful insight, respectful reflection, and seamless logistics, so you can focus on what truly matters. Led by a licensed guide, you'll visit both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau and return with a deeper understanding of the past. Whether travelling solo or with others, this tour is trusted by thousands every year for its emotional impact and flawless organisation.
Duration: 7hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
Secure your skip-the-line entry to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum and take part in an official guided tour led by a licensed museum educator. This is a unique opportunity to reflect on history in a respectful setting. Skip-the-line tickets are ideal for visitors who prefer to travel to the site independently and join the guided group on location.
Duration: 4hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
Book a private transfer from Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum and travel comfortably without worrying about public transport or fixed timetables. Choose between one-way transport or a round-trip option with the driver waiting on site.
Maximize your time in Krakow with our specially curated 1 day tour, combining the essential visits to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine. This one day adventure offers you a chance to experience two of Krakow's most significant and must-see locations: the historical Auschwitz Camp and the mesmerizing Salt Mine in Wieliczka. Our well organized tour ensures you don't miss out on what these sites have to offer, making your visit truly worthwhile. Book now to discover the best of Krakow in just one day trip!
Duration: 11hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
Secure your skip-the-line entry to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum and take part in an official guided tour led by a licensed museum educator. This is a unique opportunity to reflect on history in a respectful setting. Skip-the-line tickets are ideal for visitors who prefer to travel to the site independently and join the guided group on location.
Duration: 4hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
Walk in the footsteps of history on a professionally guided visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau – one of the most important memorial sites in the world. Departing from Krakow, this all-inclusive tour offers powerful insight, respectful reflection, and seamless logistics, so you can focus on what truly matters. Led by a licensed guide, you'll visit both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau and return with a deeper understanding of the past. Whether travelling solo or with others, this tour is trusted by thousands every year for its emotional impact and flawless organisation.
Duration: 7hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
Book a private transfer from Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum and travel comfortably without worrying about public transport or fixed timetables. Choose between one-way transport or a round-trip option with the driver waiting on site.
Duration: 7h
Live guide
Skip-theLine
Transportation included
